Functionalized phenolic compounds and polymers therefrom

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to compounds of formula I, which are functionalized phenolic compounds, and polymers formed from the same.
 
Ar—[O—(X) p —R′] q   I
 
Polymers formed from the functionalized phenolics are expected to have controllable degradation profiles, enabling them to release an active component over a desired time range. The polymers are also expected to be useful in a variety of medical applications.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the discovery of functionalizedphenolic compounds and polymers derived therefrom, which can havecontrollable degradation profiles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are a vast number of known phenolic compounds or phenolics (e.g.,flavonoids) with a variety of known beneficial uses. Phenolic andpolyphenolic compounds are found widely in nature: in cereals, legumes,nuts, oilseeds, plant oils, fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, cocoa,beer, wine, herbal products, such as Echinacea, ginseng, gingko biloba,St. John's wort, valerian, hawthorne, ginger, licorice, milk thistle,goldenseal, devil's claw, black cohosh, saw palmetto, and kava kava, forexample. These substances are essential for growth and reproduction ofplants and serve as antifeedants and antipathogens, among otherpurposes. Phenolic compounds can also aid in the maintenance of food,fresh flavor, taste, color, and prevention of oxidation deterioration.Many phenolic compounds are attracting the attention of food and medicalscientists because of their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory,antimutagenic, and anticarcinogenic properties, and their capacity tomodulate key cellular enzyme function. Phenolics pigment plant productsand function as antibiotics, natural pesticides, signal substances forthe establishment of symbiosis with rhizobia, attractants forpollinators, protective agents against ultraviolet light, insulatingmaterials to make cell walls impermeable to gas and water, and asstructural materials to give plants stability. The members of this classhave many valuable uses in the fields of nutrition, nutriceuticals,pharmaceuticals, medicine, agriculture, chemistry, and in other fieldsof technology.

Unfortunately, phenolic compounds generally can be difficult to dissolvein water or the human body and can also be very difficult to polymerizein the phenolic state. Due to the availability and numerous uses ofphenolics, it is desirable to enhance their native value by, forexample, providing compounds or combinations of compounds with aspecific controlled degradation profile or range enabling controlledrelease of the phenolic over an extended, controllable time range.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention provides novel functionalized phenolic compounds,which are hydrolysable and can be useful for medical applications (e.g.,drug delivery and solvent for dissolving drugs).

The present invention also provides novel, absorbable polymers andco-polymers (e.g., polyesters, polyamides, polyester amides,polyurethanes, and polyanhydrides) derived from functionalized phenoliccompounds. These polymers are expected to have controllable degradationprofiles.

The present invention also provides novel medical devices comprisingfunctionalized phenolic compounds or polymers derived fromfunctionalized phenolic compounds.

Other features of the present invention will be pointed out in thefollowing description and claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention provides novel functionalized phenolic compoundsand absorbable polymers derived from them. The present invention isdesigned to extend the usefulness of phenolic compounds while retainingtheir inherent biological properties. The phenolic compounds arefunctionalized with safe and biocompatible molecules (e.g., glycolicacid, lactic acid, caprolactone, and dioxanone). The novelfunctionalized phenolic compounds of the present invention are expectedto have controllable hydrolysis profiles, improved bioavailability,improved efficacy, and enhanced functionality.

Some of the functionalized phenolic compounds of the present inventioncan be monomers from which polymers can be made that are useful formedical applications. For example, a phenolic compound can befunctionalized to form functionalized monomers that can then bepolymerized to form absorbable polymers (e.g., polyesters, polyamides,polyester amides, polyurethanes, and polyanhydrides). It can beadvantageous for the monomers that are to be polymerized to have atleast two active sites (e.g., 2 or 3) for polymerization. These activesites include hydroxyl, amino, and carboxylic acid groups (e.g., twohydroxyl groups, a hydroxyl group and a carboxylic acid, a hydroxylgroup and an amine group, a carboxylic acid group and an amino group,and two carboxylic acid groups). The functionalized phenolic compoundswith at least two active sites can also be copolymerized with selecteddifunctional molecules (e.g., dicarboxylic acids, dialcohols,diisocyanates, amino-alcohols, hydroxy-carboxylic acids, and diamines)based on the starting functionalized phenolic to form absorbablepolymers. The polymers (and copolymers) of the present invention canalso be further reacted/polymerized to form additional useful polymersof the present invention.

The definitions and examples provided in this application are notintended to be limiting, unless specifically stated.

Phenolic compound (also called phenolics) as used herein are definedsubstances that have at least one phenyl ring that is substituted withat least on hydroxyl group (e.g., hydroxy-phenyl).

Phenolic residue means the portion of the phenolic compound remainingafter removing a H from at least one hydroxyl group.

Ar, as used herein, is an aromatic moiety that typically has 1, 2, 3, 4,5, or 6 aromatic rings (e.g., phenyl) and bear one or more hydroxylsubstituents (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 4, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25) on at least one of thearomatic rings. Additional examples of the number of aromatic groupspresent in the phenolic include (a) 1, 2, and 3 and (b) 1 and 2.Additional examples of the number of hydroxyl groups present on thephenolic include (a) 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 and (b) 1 and 2. From one to allof the hydroxyl groups present on the phenolic compound may befunctionalized. Phenolics are typically bioactive substances occurringwidely in food plants that are eaten regularly by substantial numbers ofanimals and people and have been found to be safe compounds.

The aromatic rings of the Ar group can be fused together (e.g.,naphthyl), bonded together (e.g., bi-phenyl), or linked together via alinking group. Typical linking groups include, O, S(O)₀₋₂, NH (or asubstituted amine, e.g., C₁₋₆ alkyl, phenyl, or benzyl), C₁₋₆ alkylene,or a C₁₋₆ alkylene wherein one or two of the alkylene carbon atoms isreplaced by one or two of the previously noted heteroatoms. The aromaticrings of the Ar group can also be fused to heteroaryl rings and/ornon-aromatic rings. Examples of heteroaryl rings include 5-6 memberedrings consisting of carbon atoms and 0-4 heteroatoms selected from O, N,and S(O)₀₋₂. Examples of non-aromatic rings include 5-6 memberedcarbocyclic or heterocyclic rings consisting of carbon atoms and 0-3heteroatoms selected from O, N, and S(O)₀₋₂. The non-aromatic rings canconsist of 0-2 ring double bonds as well as 0-2 carbonyl groups attachedto the ring. Examples of non-aromatic rings include pyran and pyran-one.The non-aromatic rings can also be substituted by 1-2 carbonyl groups,in addition to other substituents defined elsewhere. When more than onearomatic ring is present (e.g., two phenyl rings), then they can beseparated by a heteroaryl or non-aromatic ring as described above. Forexample, a phenyl ring can be bound to a chromene-2-one.

Examples of Ar include the following:

Each of the phenyl rings shown in the above examples can be substitutedwith 0, 1, or 2 OH groups, wherein at least one OH is present.

The Ar group of the present invention is substituted or unsubstituted.They can be substituted with (a) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 R groups; (b) 1, 2,or 3 R groups; (c) 1 or 2 R; or (d) 1 R.

Examples of substituent R include H, ═O, O-glycosides, —(CH₂)₀₋₂—OR^(a),—(CH₂)₀₋₂—C₆H₅, —(CH₂)₀₋₂—CHO, Cl, F, Br, I, —(CH₂)₀₋₂—OC(O)—R^(a),—(CH₂)₀₋₂—CO₂—R^(a), —(C(CH₃))₀₋₂—CO₂—R^(a),—(CH₂)₀₋₂—CO₂—(CH₂)₁₋₂—CO₂—R^(a), —(C(CH₃))₀₋₂—CO₂—(CH₂)₁₋₂—CO₂—R^(a),—(CH₂)₀₋₂—CO—R^(a), —O(CH₂)₀₋₂—C₆H₅, —O(CH₂)₁₋₂—CO₂—R^(a),—O(C(CH₃))₁₋₂—CO₂—R^(a), —O(CH₂)₁₋₂—CO—R^(a), —CO₂(CH₂)₁₋₂—CO₂—R^(a),—CO₂(C(CH₃))₁₋₂—CO₂—R^(a), —(CH₂)₀₋₂—NO₂, —(CH₂)₀₋₂—NR^(a)R^(a),—(CH₂)₀₋₂—NR^(a)COR^(a), —(CH₂)₀₋₂—NR^(a)C(O)(CH₂)₁₋₂OR^(a), —C₆H₅,—C₆H₅OR^(a), and —C₆H₅—CH═CHCO₂R^(a).

Examples of R^(a) include H and C₁₋₆ alkyl;

As described herein, the functionalized phenolic compounds and polymersof the present invention are expected to be useful in medicalapplications/medical devices. Medical application/medical devices, asused herein, encompass medical and biomedical applications and includeall types of applications involved in the practice of medicine thatwould benefit from a material that decomposes harmlessly within a knownperiod of time. Examples include medical and surgical devices, whichinclude drug delivery systems (e.g., a site-specific or systemic drugdelivery systems or matrices), tissue engineering (e.g., tissuescaffold), stent coatings, stents, porous devices, implantable medicaldevices, molded articles (e.g., vascular grafts, stents, bone plates,sutures, implantable sensors, and barriers for surgical adhesionprevention), wound closure devices (e.g., surgical clips, staples, andsutures), coatings (e.g., for endoscopic instruments, sutures, stents,and needles), fibers or filaments (which may be attached to surgicalneedles or fabricated into materials including sutures or ligatures,multifilament yarn, sponges, gauze, tubes, and sheets for typing up andsupporting damaged surface abrasions), rods, films (e.g., adhesionprevention barriers), knitted products, foodstuffs, nutritionalsupplements, nutriceuticals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, biodegradablechewing gums, flavors, enhanced drugs, drug intermediates, cancerpreventing agents, antioxidants, controlled release preparations, andsolvents for drugs. Examples of knitted products, woven or non-woven,and molded products include: burn dressings; hernia patches; medicateddressings; fascial substitutes; gauze, fabric, sheet, felt, or spongefor liver hemostasis; gauze bandages; arterial graft or substitutes;bandages for skin surfaces; suture knot clip; orthopedic pins, clamps,screws, and plates; clips (e.g., for vena cava); staples; hooks,buttons, and snaps; bone substitutes (e.g., mandible prosthesis);intrauterine devices (e.g., spermicidal devices); draining or testingtubes or capillaries; surgical instruments; vascular implants orsupports; vertebral discs; extracorporeal tubing for kidney andheart-lung machines; and, artificial skin.

As used herein, “polymer” includes both polymers and copolymersdepending on the number of different monomers used.

The present invention provides novel functionalized phenolic compoundsof formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof:Ar—[O—(X)_(p)—R′]_(q)  I

wherein:

Ar—(O)_(q) is a phenolic residue;

X is selected from:

-   -   —CH₂COO— (glycolic acid moiety);    -   —CH(CH₃)COO— (lactic acid moiety);    -   —CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO— (dioxanone moiety);    -   —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO— (caprolactone moiety);    -   —(CH₂)_(y)COO— where y is independently selected from 2, 3, 4,        6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,        23, and 24; and,    -   —(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂COO— where z is independently selected from 2,        3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,        21, 22, 23, and 24;

R′ is selected from H, benzyl, and C₁₋₆ alkyl;

p is independently selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4; and,

q is selected from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25;

provided that at least one X is present; and,

further provided that when X is one and only one of —CH₂COO—,—CH(CH₃)COO—, or —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO— and q is 1 or 2, then p is ≧2.

Additional examples of q include (a) 1-10, (b) 1-5, (c) 1-3, (d) 1-2,and (e) 1.

It may also be advantageous for p to be ≧2, when q is 1 or 2 and X isone and only one —(CH₂)_(y)COO— where y is independently selected from2, 3, 4, 6, and 7.

The group represented by X is attached via its carbon terminus to theoxygen group of the phenolic residue.

The rate of hydrolysis of the functionalized phenolics will depend upona number of factors, including the functionalization species used andthe number of functionalization species present on the functionalizedphenolic (e.g., 1-6). Glycolic acid modified phenolics should hydrolyzefaster than dioxanone modifies ones, where as lactic acid andcaprolactone modified phenolics should take much longer to hydrolyzethan glycolic acid and dioxanone modified phenolics. Furthermore, it isexpected that the rate of hydrolysis will increase with the increase inthe value of p and q. Thus, the desired time range may be obtained byaltering the number and type of functionalization species used tofunctionalize the phenolic.

The present invention also provides novel functionalized phenolics offormula I, wherein:

y is independently selected from 2, 3, and 4;

z is independently selected from 2, 3, and 4;

p is independently selected from 1, 2, and 3; and,

q is selected from 1, 2, and 3.

The present invention also provides novel functionalized phenolics offormula I, wherein: X is selected from:

-   —CH₂COO—;-   —CH(CH₃)COO—;-   —CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO—; and,-   —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO—;

p is 2; and,

q is selected from 1 and 2;

Examples of phenolic compounds expected to be useful in the presentinvention include phenols (e.g., hydroxy-benzene, dihydroxy-benzene(e.g., resorcinol, catechol, and hydroquinone), andtri-hydroxy-phenyls), naphthols (e.g., hydroxy-naphthyl,dihydroxy-naphthyl, tri-hydroxy-naphthyl, and tetra-hydroxy-napthyl),hydroxy-benzoic acids (e.g., hydroxy-benzoic acid and dihydroxy-benzoicacid), indoles, acetophenones, benzophenones, drugs containing phenolicgroups (e.g., phenolic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, whichinclude naproxen, paracetanol, acetaminophen, and acetylsalicylic acid),and, natural products containing phenolic groups,

Examples of naturally occurring phenolics include the followingcompounds and their derivatives: cinnamic acids (e.g., 4-hydroxycinnamicacid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and ferulic acid), capsaicin,coumarins (e.g., 4-hydroxycoumarin), furanocoumarins (e.g., psoralen,bergapten, bergaptol, xanthotoxin, isopimpinellin, and4,5′,8-trimethylenepsoralen), alkaloids, catechins, chromones (includingsynthetic chromones), chalcones (including synthetic chromones),daidzein, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, flavonoids or bioflavonoids,isoflavones, resveratrol, sinapic acid, vanillic acid, and vanillin

Examples of drugs containing phenolic groups include: acenocoumarol,acetarsol, actinoquinol, adrenalone, alibendol, amodiaquine, anethole,balsalazide, bamethan, benserazide, bentiromide, benzarone,benzquinamide, bevantolol, bifluranol, buclosamide, bupheniode,chlorotrianisene, chloroxylenol, cianidanol, cinepazide, cinitapride,cinepazide, cinmetacin, clebopride, clemastine, clioquinol, cyclovalone,cynarine, denopamine, dextroythyroxine, diacerein, dichlorophen,dienestrol, diethylstilbestrol, diflunisal, diiodohydroxyquinoline,dilazep, dilevalol, dimestrol, dimoxyline, diosmin, dithranol,dobutamine, donepezil, dopamine, dopexamine, doxazosin, entacapone,epanolol, epimestrol, epinephrine, estradiol valerate, estriol, estriolsuccinate, estrone, etamivan, etamsylate, ethaverine, ethoxzolamide,ethyl biscoumacetate, etilefrine, etiroxate, exalamide, exifone,fendosal, fenoldopam mesilate, fenoterol, fenoxedil, fenticlor,flopropione, floredil, fluorescein, folescutol, formoterol, gallopamil,gentistic acid, glaziovine, glibenclamide, glucametacin, guajacol,halquinol, hexachlorophene, hexestrol, hexobendine, hexoprenaline,hexylresorcinol, hydroxyethyl salicylate, hydroxystilbamidineisethionate, hymecromone, ifenprodil, indometacin, ipriflavone,isoetarine, isoprenaline, isoxsuprine, itopride hydrochloride,ketobemidone, khellin, labetalol, lactylphenetidin, levodopa.levomepromazine, levorphanol, levothyroxine, mebeverine, medrylamine,mefexamide, mepacrine, mesalazine, mestranol, metaraminol,methocarbamol, methoxamine, methoxsalen, methyldopa, midodrine,mitoxantrone, morclofone, nabumetone, nitroxoline, norfenefrine,normolaxol, octopamine, omeprazole, orciprenaline, oxilofrine,oxitriptan, oxyfedrine, oxypertine, oxyphenbutazone, oxyphenisatinacetate, oxyquinoline, papaverine, paracetanol, parethoxycaine,phenacaine, phenacetin, phenazocine, phenolphthalein, phenprocoumon,phentolamine, phloedrine, picotamide, pimobendan, prenalterol,primaquine, progabide, propanidid, protokylol, proxymetacaine,raloxifene hydrochloride, repaglinide, reproterol, rimiterol, ritodrine,salacetamide, salazosulfapyridine, salbutamol, salicylamide, salicylicacid, salmeterol, salsalate, sildenafil, silibinin, sulmetozin,tamsulosin, terazosin, terbutaline, tetroxoprim, theodrenaline,tioclomarol, tioxolone, α-tocopherol (vitamin E), tofisopam, tolcapone,tolterodine, tranilast, tretoquinol, triclosan, trimazosin,trimetazidine, trimethobenzamide, trimethoprim, trimetozine,trimetrexate glucuronate, troxipide, verapamil, vesnarinone,vetrabutine, viloxazine, warfarin, and xamoterol.

Additional examples of phenolics (e.g., bioactive phenolics) include thefollowing compounds and their derivatives: acacetin,4-acetamido-2-methyl-1-naphthol, albuterol, allenolic acid, aloe emodin,aloin, β-amino-4-hydroxy-3,5-diiodohydrocinnamic acid,N-(5-amino-2-hydroxyphenyl)-benzeneacetamide, 4-amino-1-naphthol,3-aminosalicylic acid, 4-aminosalicylic acid, anacardic acid, p-anol,anthragallol, anthralin, anthranol, anthrarobin, anthrarufin, apigenin,apiin, apocynin, aspidinol, baptigenin, benzestrol, benzoresorcinol,bisphenol a, bisphenol b, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylatedhydroxytoluene, capobenic acid,trans-1-(3′-carboxy-4′-hydroxyphenyl)-2-(2″,5″-dihydroxyphenyl)ethane,catechin, m-chlorophenol, 5-chloro-8-quinolinol, chloroxylenol,chloroquinaldol, chromonar, chrysin, cinametic acid, chlorophene,coniferyl alcohol, p-coumaric acid, coumestrol, coumetarol, daphnetin,datiscetin, deoxyepinephrine, 3,5-diiodothyronine, 3,5-diiodotyrosine,dimethophrine, diosmetin, diresorcinol, disoprofol, dopa, dopamine,drosophilin a, efloxate, ellagic acid, embelin, Equol, eriodictyol,esculetin, esculin, ethylnorepinephrine, ethyl vanillin, eugenol,eupatorin, fenadiazole, fisetin, 3-fluoro-4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid,fraxetin, fustin, galangin, gallacetophenone, gallic acid, gardenins,genistein, gentisyl alcohol, gepefrine, geranylhydroquinone,[6]-gingerol, gossypol, guaiacol, guaifenesin, harmalol, hematoxylin,hinderin, homoeriodictyol, homogentisic acid, homovanillic acid,hydroxyamphetamine,2-hydroxy-5-(2,5-dihydroxybenzylamino)-2-hydroxybenzoic acid,4-hydroxy-3-methoxymandelic acid, n-(p-hydroxyphenyl)glycine,hydroxyprocaine, 8-hydroxyquinoline, hypericin, irigenin, isoproterenol,isoquercitrin, isothebaine, kaempferol, liothyronine, luteolin,mangostin, 5,5′-methylenedisalicylic acid, n-methylepinephrine,metyrosine, morin, mycophenolic acid, myricetin, naringenin, nylidrin,orcinol, osalmid, osthole, oxantel, paroxypropione, pentachlorophenol,3-pentadecylcatechol, p-pentyloxyphenol, phloretin, phloroglucinol,pinosylvine, plumbagin, pyrocatechol, pyrogallol, quercetagetin,quercetin, resacetophenone, rhamnetin, rhein, sakuranetin, salicylalcohol, salicylanilide, 4-salicyloylmorpholine, salsalate, scopoletin,scutellarein, serotonin,(3,4,5-trihydroxyphenyl)methylenepropanedinitrile, thymol, thyropropicacid, thyroxine, and tiratricol.

Flavonoids, sometimes called bioflavonoids, are 3-ring phenoliccompounds consisting of a double ring attached by a single bond to athird ring. Examples include flavonoids, flavanones, flavones,flavanols, anthocyanidins, proanthocyanidins, procyanidolic oligomers(PCO), catechins, biflavans, polyphenols, rutin, rutinosides,hydroxyethylrutosides (HER), hesperidin, quercetin, quercetrin,polyphenols, catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate,epigallocatechin gallate, and leucoanthocyanins. Flavonoids include thewater-soluble pigments, such as anthocyanins, that are found in cellvacuoles. Flavonols are colorless or yellow flavonoids found in leavesand many flowers.

A therapeutic dose of bioflavonoids is helpful for conditions related toChronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). Some examples are: thrombophlebitis,thrombosis, varicose veins, leg ulcers, spider veins, hemorrhoids,chronic nosebleeds, prolonged menstrual bleeding. Even eye problems likemacular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy have been helped withbioflavonoids. Along with the anti-inflammatory effects, bioflavonoidscan be very helpful for tendonitis, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis,joint injury, fibromyalgia, cellulite, and gout. Bioflavonoids,specifically proanthcyanidins, are found in grape seed extract. Theproanthcyanidins appear to enhance the activity of vitamin C. Thebioflavonoids in grape seed extract may also reduce the painfulinflammation of swollen joints and prevent the oxidation of cholesterolin arteries that leads to plaque in the arterial walls.

Isoflavones exert a broad spectrum of biological activities. Besidesantioxidant and estrogenic activities, isoflavones protect againstseveral chronic diseases. Results of epidemiological studies indicatethat consumption of soybean isoflavones lowers the incidence of breast,prostate, urinary tract and colon cancers. They also provide protectionagainst coronary heart diseases and osteoporosis. Examples ofisoflavones include are glycitein (isoflavone), daidzein, prunetin,biochanin A, orobol, santal, pratensein, formononetin, genistein,glycitein, and the glucosides, β-glycosides and other derivatives of theaforementioned isoflavones.

Resveratrol has been shown to lower the risk for coronary heart diseaseby inhibiting the plaque build-up or clogging of arteries by increasingthe level of high density lipoproteins (HDLs) in the blood. Resveratrolalso reduces blood platelet aggregation or clotting (thrombosis) withinthe blood vessels. Resveratrol belongs to the class of plant chemicalscalled phytoalexin. Plants use them as a defense mechanism in responseto attacks by fungi and insects. One interesting phytoalexin calledpsolaren, having a chemical structure similar to coumarin, has been usedin the treatment of certain cancers, including T-cell lymphomas in AIDSpatients.

The capsaicins are amides of vanillylamine and C₈ and C₁₃ branched fattyacids. Examples of indications for capsaicins include peripheralneuropathic pain, post-herpetic neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia,psoriasis, fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy, cluster headaches,earache, osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, and as a pain reliever.

Sinapinic acid (sinapic acid) and its esterified forms are thepredominant phenolic acid compounds found in rapeseed, contributing toits flavor and aroma. The sinapinic acid compounds have been shown toexhibit an anti-inflammatory action and have antimicrobial properties.

Tea polyphenols have been shown to block the nitrosation of amines byreducing nitrate to nitric acid or by forming C-nitroso compounds, thusblocking hepatotoxicity, lowering the risk of breast cancer metastasis.An example a component of green tea, epigallocatechin-3-gallate.

Further examples of phenolics useful in the present invention can befound in the following texts, which are incorporated by reference.

-   -   a. Shahidi, Ferriodoon and Marian Naczk, Phenolics in Food and        Nutriceuticals, Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC Press, 2003.    -   b. Kleemann, A. et al, Pharmaceutical Substances, 4th Edition,        Thieme (2000).    -   c. Phenolic Compounds in Food and Their Effects on Health II;        Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention, ACS Symposium Series No.        507, Washington, D.C.: ACS, 1992.    -   d. Food Phytochemicals for Cancer Prevention I, ACS Symposium        Series N. 546, Washington, D.C.: ACS, 1994.    -   e. ROMPP Encyclopedia Natural Products, New York: Thieme, 2000.    -   f. The Merck Index, 12^(th) edition, Rahway, N.J.: Merck and        Company, 1996.    -   g. A Single Source for Flavonoids and Coumarins (2003), INDOFINE        Chemical Company, Inc. 2004.

The starting material for the compounds of the present invention may bea phenolic compound or may be a precursor to a phenolic, such as amethoxyphenol, benzyloxyphenol or acetoxyphenol.

The present invention also provides a blend comprising one or more ofthe functionalization species with one or more species of phenoliccompounds.

The present invention also provides polymers formed from thefunctionalized phenolic compounds of this invention that aredifunctional, that is those species having more than one hydroxyl,carboxyl, ester, amino, cyano, or other polymerizable group. If thefunctionalized phenolic of the present invention only has onepolymerizable moiety, then it can only be used as an endcap. Polymers ofthe functionalized phenolics are expected to have specific ranges overwhich they release the active phenolic moiety. One can blend polymersmade from functionalized phenolics derived from one or more of thefunctionalization species and one or more species of phenolic moietiesto obtain the release range desired for the specific application intothe body of a mammalian, including a human or the environment. Thisrelease range varies with the species used for functionalization as wellas the phenolic compound. The combinations or blends of these entitiesmay comprise an amount of from 0.5% to 99.5% by weight of each species.

In addition, the monomers of the present invention may be polymerized toform absorbable polymers that display excellent physical, chemical, andbiological properties, which make them useful in medical applications.The polymers of the present invention are expected to form non-toxicdegradation products by hydrolytic chain cleavage under physiologicalconditions. The novel polymers of the present invention are expected tohave increased rate of degradation and bioresorption as well ascontrollable degradation profile in comparison to the currentlyavailable polymers.

For example, a phenol, such as resorcinol, can be functionalized to forma reactive compound, which can be polymerized to form an absorbablepolymer with a specific absorption profile. Similarly, each thephenolics described above can be functionalized to form reactivemonomers. The polymers derived from these monomers will have uniquephysical and biological properties with absorption profiles that arecontrollable.

Thus, the present invention provides novel polymers formed fromfunctionalized phenolic compounds of formula I:Ar—[O—(X)_(p)—R′]_(q)  I

wherein:

Ar—(O)_(q) is a phenolic residue;

X is selected from:

-   -   —CH₂COO— (glycolic acid moiety);    -   —CH(CH₃)COO— (lactic acid moiety);    -   —CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO— (dioxanone moiety);    -   —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO— (caprolactone moiety);    -   —(CH₂)_(y)COO— where y is independently selected from 2, 3, 4,        6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,        23, and 24; and,    -   —(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂COO— where z is independently selected from 2,        3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,        21, 22, 23, and 24;

R′ is selected from H, benzyl, and C₁₋₆ alkyl;

p is independently selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4; and,

q is selected from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25;

provided that at least one X is present; and,

further provided that when Ar—[O]_(q) is a hydroxy benzene, then (X)_(p)is other than —CH₂COO— or —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO—.

The functionalized phenolic compounds of the present invention can bepolymerized via conventional polymerization process using diol, triols,dicarboxylic acids, tricarboxylic acids, diamines, or triamines based onthe starting difunctionalized or trifunctionalized phenolics, includingthose processes that synthesize polymers traditionally consideredhydrolytically stable and non-biodegradable.

The present invention encompasses a variety of different polymers, someof which are copolymers. The polymers of the present invention include(a) polymers formed from one functionalized phenolic; (b) copolymersformed from more than one (e.g., 2, 3, or 4) type of functionalizedphenolic (e.g., a blend of functionalized phenolic compounds that ispolymerized); (c) copolymers formed from at least one type offunctionalized phenolic having at least two active sites (e.g, 2 or 3)and a difunctional molecule (e.g., dicarboxylic acids, dialcohols,diisocyanates, amino-alcohols, hydroxy-carboxylic acids, and diamines);and (d) copolymers formed from at least one of the polymers of (a)-(c)and at least one lactone monomer (e.g., glycolide, lactide,e-caprolactone, trimethylene carbonate, and p-dioxanone). The absorptionprofile of the polymers of the present invention will depend upon anumber of factors, including the functionalization species used and thenumber of functionalization species present on the functionalizedphenolic (e.g., 1-6). Glycolic acid based polymers should hydrolyzefaster than dioxanone based, where as lactic acid and caprolactone basedpolymers should take much longer to hydrolyze than glycolic acid anddioxanone based polymers. The desired time range may be obtained byaltering the number and type of functionalization species as well as thenumber of different functionalized phenolic compounds (e.g., a blend oftwo or more functionalized phenolics). The desired time range will alsobe impacted by moieties used for co-polymerization (e.g., difunctionalcompounds or lactone monomers).

The functionalized phenolic polymers can be used in various medicalapplications described herein or can be further polymerized with lactonemonomers, such as glycolide, lactide, ε-caprolactone, trimethylenecarbonate, and p-dioxanone, and the resulting absorbable functionalizedphenolic/lactone copolymers can be used in the various medicalapplications described herein.

As noted above, more than one of the functionalized phenolic compoundsof the present invention can be blended and polymerized to form afunctionalized phenolic copolymer. The functionalized phenoliccopolymers can be used in various medical applications described hereinor can be further polymerized with lactone monomers, such as glycolide,lactide, ε-caprolactone, trimethylene carbonate, and p-dioxanone, andthe resulting absorbable polymers can also have the medical applicationsdescribed herein.

As noted above, the functionalized phenolic compounds of the presentinvention with at least two reactive sites can be polymerized withdifunctional molecules (e.g., dicarboxylic acids, dialcohols,diisocyanates, amino-alcohols, hydroxy-carboxylic acids, and diamines)to form absorbable polymers, including but not limited to polyesters,polyester amides, polyurethanes, polyamides, and polyanhydrides bysimple polycondensation reactions. The functionalizedphenolic/difunctional molecule polymers can be used in various medicalapplications or can be further polymerized with lactone monomers, suchas glycolide, lactide, ε-caprolactone, trimethylene carbonate, andp-dioxanone, and the resulting absorbable polymers potential have themedical applications described above.

In another example of the present invention, functionalized dihydroxyphenolic compounds of the present invention can be used in thepreparation of polyesters by reacting with dicarboxylic acid compounds.Dicarboxylic acids useful in the present invention have the followingstructure:HOOC—R—COOHwherein R is selected from saturated and unsaturated, substituted andunsubstituted alkyl, aryl and alkylaryl groups having from 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 carbon atoms

In another example of the present invention, functionalized dicarboxylicacid phenolic compounds of the present invention can be used in thepreparation of polyesters by reacting with the dialcohol (i.e., diol)compounds. Dialcohols useful in the present invention have the followingstructure:HO—R—OHwherein R is selected from saturated and unsaturated, substituted andunsubstituted alkyl, aryl and alkylaryl groups having from 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 carbon atoms.Alternatively, polyalkylene oxides have weight average molecular weightsfrom about 500-5,000 can be used as a diol (i.e., a polydiol). Suitablediols or polydiols for use in the present invention are diol or diolrepeating units with up to 8 carbon atoms. Examples of suitable diolsinclude 1,2-ethanediol (ethylene glycol); 1,2-propanediol (propyleneglycol); 1,3-propanediol; 1,4-butanediol; 1,5-pentanediol;1,3-cyclopentanediol; 1,6-hexanediol; 1,4-cyclohexanediol;1,8-octanediol; and, combinations thereof. Examples of polydiols includepolyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol with weight averagemolecular weights of 500-5000.

In another example of the present invention, functionalized dihydroxyphenolic compounds of the present invention can be used in thepreparation of polyurethanes by reacting with diisocyante compounds.Examples of diisocyanates include hexamethylene diisocyante, lysinediisocyanate, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (e.g., MDI), Hated MDI(e.g., methylene dicyclohexyl diisocyanate), and isophoronediisocyanate.

In another example of the present invention, functionalizedhydroxy-amino phenolic compounds of the present invention can be used inthe preparation of polyesteramides by reacting with dicarboxylic acidcompounds described above.

In another example of the present invention, functionalized dicarboxylicacid phenolic compounds of the present invention can be used in thepreparation of polyesteramides by reacting with the amino-alcoholcompounds Amino-alcohols useful in the present invention have thefollowing structure:HO—R—NH₂wherein R is selected from saturated and unsaturated, substituted andunsubstituted alkyl, aryl and alkylaryl groups having from 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 carbon atoms.

In another example of the present invention, functionalizedhydroxy-carboxylic acid phenolic compounds of the present invention canbe used in the preparation of polyesters by reacting withhydroxycarboxylic acid compounds. Hydroxycarboxylic acids useful in thepresent invention have the following structure:HO—R—COOHwherein R is selected from saturated and unsaturated, substituted andunsubstituted alkyl, aryl and alkylaryl groups having from 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 carbon atoms,

In another example of the present invention, functionalizedamino-carboxylic acid phenolic compounds of the present invention can beused in the preparation of polyesteramides by reacting with thehydroxycarboxylic acid compounds described above.

In another example of the present invention, functionalized dicarboxylicacid phenolic compounds of the present invention can be used in thepreparation of polyamides by reacting with the diamine compounds.Diamines useful in the present invention have the following structure:H₂N—R—NH₂wherein R is selected from saturated and unsaturated, substituted andunsubstituted alkyl, aryl and alkylaryl groups having from 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 carbon atoms.Alternatively, polyalkylene oxides that are diamines with weight averagemolecular weights from about 500-5,000 can be used.

In another example of the present invention, functionalized dicarboxylicacid phenolic compounds of the present invention can be used in thepreparation of polyanhydrides by reacting with the dicarboxylic acidcompounds described above.

The functionalized phenolic compounds of the present invention havingmore than two reactive groups (e.g., 3) are expected to be useful in thepreparation of cross linked hydrogels and are prepared

Examples of polymers of the present invention have weight-averagemolecular weights above about 20,000 daltons or above about 100,000daltons, calculated from gel permeation chromatography (GPC) relative topolystyrene standards in tetrahydrofuran (THF) without furthercorrection.

The polymers of the present invention should be able to be processed byknown methods commonly employed in the field of synthetic polymers toprovide a variety of useful articles with valuable physical and chemicalproperties. The useful articles can be shaped by conventionalpolymer-forming techniques such as extrusion, compression molding,injection molding, solvent casting, and wet spinning Shaped articlesprepared from the polymers are expected to be useful as degradabledevices for medical implant applications.

The present invention also relates to a composition, comprising: atleast two (e.g., 2, 3, 4, or 5) functional phenolic compounds of thepresent invention. The present invention also relates to a composition,comprising: at least one functionalized phenolic, wherein thecomposition is suitable for use as at least one of the following: (a) asolvent for drugs; (b) a nutritional compound; (c) a cosmetic: and, (d)a pharmaceutical. Each of the compositions may further comprise anadditional component suitable for such composition. For example, whenthe composition is suitable for use as a cosmetic it may furthercomprise: one or more cosmetic ingredients. Also, when the compositionis suitable for use as a pharmaceutical it may further comprise: one ormore pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. In addition, each of thecompositions may comprise a functionalized phenolic derived from aphenolic having a property useful to that type of composition. Forexample, the starting phenolic may be (a) a nutritional supplement or afood intermediary; (b) an anticancer agent; (c) an antimicrobial agent;(d) an anti-inflammatory agent; (e) a pain-reducer; and, (f) anantioxidant agent. Also, the compositions may further comprise one ofagents (a)-(f).

The compositions of the present invention may be suitable foradministration via a route selected from oral, enteral, parenteral,topical, transdermal, ocular, vitreal, rectal, nasal, pulmonary, andvaginal.

The implantable medical devices of the present invention, comprise: atleast one absorbable polymer of the present invention. For example, apolymer of the present invention can be combined with a quantity of abiologically or pharmaceutically active compound sufficient to betherapeutically effective as a site-specific or systemic drug deliverysystem (see Gutowska et al., J. Biomater. Res., 29, 811-21 (1995) andHoffman, J. Controlled Release, 6, 297-305 (1987)). Another example ofthe present invention is a method for site-specific or systemic drugdelivery by implanting in the body of a patient in need thereof animplantable drug delivery device comprising a therapeutically effectiveamount of a biologically or a physiologically active compound incombination with at least one absorbable polymer of the presentinvention.

In another example, at least one polymer of the present invention isformed into a porous device (see Mikos et al., Biomaterials, 14, 323-329(1993) or Schugens et al., J. Biomed. Mater. Res., 30, 449-462 (1996))to allow for the attachment and growth of cells (see Bulletin of theMaterial Research Society, Special Issue on Tissue Engineering (GuestEditor: Joachim Kohn), 21(11), 22-26 (1996)). Thus, the presentinvention provides a tissue scaffold comprising a porous structure forthe attachment and proliferation of cells either in vitro or in vivoformed from at least one absorbable polymer of the present invention

The present invention also relates to an article (e.g., an implantablemedical device), comprising: a metal or polymeric substrate havingthereon a coating, wherein the coating, comprises: at least one polymerof the present invention.

The present invention also relates to a molded article prepared from atleast one polymer of the present invention.

The present invention also relates to a controlled drug delivery system,comprising: at least one polymer of the present invention physicallyadmixed with a biologically or pharmacologically active agent. Forexample, the controlled drug delivery system can comprise: abiologically or pharmacologically active agent coated with at least onepolymer of the present invention.

The present invention also relates to a controlled drug delivery system,comprising: a biologically or pharmacologically active agent physicallyembedded or dispersed into a polymeric matrix formed from at least onepolymer of the present invention.

The present invention also relates to a tissue scaffold having a porousstructure for the attachment and proliferation of cells, either in vitroor in vivo, formed from one least one polymer of the present invention.

The present invention also relates to a composition, comprising: atleast one polymer of the present invention, which has been furtherpolymerized with at least one lactone monomer selected from: glycolide,lactide, p-dioxanone, trimethylene carbonate, and caprolactone.

The present invention also relates to an implantable biomedical device,comprising: at least one polymer that has been further polymerized withat least one lactone monomer.

The present invention also relates to a biodegradable chewing gumcomposition, comprising: an effective amount of at least one polymerthat has been further polymerized with at least on lactone monomer.

The present invention also relates to an article (e.g., an implantablemedical device), comprising: a metal or polymeric substrate and havingthereon a coating, wherein said coating comprises at least one polymerthat has been further polymerized with at least one lactone monomer.

The present invention also relates to a molded article prepared from atleast one polymer that has been further polymerized with at least onelactone monomer.

The present invention also relates to a monofilament or multifilamentprepared from at least one polymer that has been further polymerizedwith at least one lactone monomer.

The present invention also relates to a controlled drug delivery system,comprising: at least one polymer that has been further polymerized withat least one lactone monomer, which has been physically admixed with abiologically or pharmacologically active agent.

The present invention also relates to a controlled drug delivery system,comprising: a biologically or pharmacologically active agent physicallyembedded or dispersed into a polymeric matrix formed from at least onepolymer that has been further polymerized with at least one lactonemonomer.

The present invention also relates to a tissue scaffold having a porousstructure for the attachment and proliferation of cells, either in vitroor in vivo, formed from at least one polymer that has been furtherpolymerized with at least one lactone monomer.

The present invention also relates to low molecular weight polymers oroligomers of the functionalized phenolic compounds of the presentinvention that are further reacted to form reactive end groups (e.g.,isocyanates, expoxides, and acrylates). Low-molecular weight polymers oroligomers as used herein means a polymer having a number averagemolecular weight of about 500-20,000 or 500-10,000. For example, some ofthe functionalized phenolic compounds behave chemically like diols. Theycan be reacted with dicarboxylic acids to form polyesters, which areusually hydroxyterminated. These hydroxyterminated oligomers can befurther reacted to form isocyanates, epoxides and acrylates. Similarlythe functionalized phenolic compounds can be reacted with isocyanates tomake urethanes. Thus, the present invention also includes a composition,comprising: at least one polymer of the present invention, which hasbeen further reacted to form reactive end groups.

The present invention also relates to polymers made from functionalizedphenolic compounds that have been sterilized by cobalt-60 radiation,electron beam radiation, and/or ethylene oxide.

“Bioabsorbable” or “absorbable” as used herein means that the materialreadily reacts or enzymatically degrades upon exposure to bodily tissuefor a relatively short period of time, thereby experiencing asignificant weight loss in that short period of time. Completebioabsorption/absorption should take place within twelve months,although it may be complete within nine months or within six months. Inthis manner, the polymers of the present invention can be fabricatedinto medical and surgical devices, which are useful for a vast array ofapplications requiring complete absorption within a relatively shorttime period.

The biological properties of the bioabsorbable polymers of the presentinvention used to form a device or part thereof, as measured by itsabsorption rate and its breaking strength retention in vivo (BSR), canbe varied to suit the needs of the particular application for which thefabricated medical device or component is intended. This can beconveniently accomplished by varying the ratio of components of thepolymer chosen.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salts” refer to derivatives of thedisclosed compounds wherein the parent compound is modified by makingacid or base salts thereof. Examples of pharmaceutically acceptablesalts include, but are not limited to, mineral or organic acid salts ofbasic residues such as amines; alkali or organic salts of acidicresidues such as carboxylic acids; and the like. The pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts include the conventional non-toxic salts or thequaternary ammonium salts of the parent compound formed, for example,from non-toxic inorganic or organic acids. For example, suchconventional non-toxic salts include, but are not limited to, thosederived from inorganic and organic acids selected from1,2-ethanedisulfonic, 2-acetoxybenzoic, 2-hydroxyethanesulfonic, acetic,ascorbic, benzenesulfonic, benzoic, bicarbonic, carbonic, citric,edetic, ethane disulfonic, ethane sulfonic, fumaric, glucoheptonic,gluconic, glutamic, glycolic, glycollyarsanilic, hexylresorcinic,hydrabamic, hydrobromic, hydrochloric, hydroiodide, hydroxymaleic,hydroxynaphthoic, isethionic, lactic, lactobionic, lauryl sulfonic,maleic, malic, mandelic, methanesulfonic, napsylic, nitric, oxalic,pamoic, pantothenic, phenylacetic, phosphoric, polygalacturonic,propionic, salicyclic, stearic, subacetic, succinic, sulfamic,sulfanilic, sulfuric, tannic, tartaric, and toluenesulfonic.

The pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the present invention can besynthesized from the parent compound that contains a basic or acidicmoiety by conventional chemical methods. Generally, such salts can beprepared by reacting the free acid or base forms of these compounds witha stoichiometric amount of the appropriate base or acid in water or inan organic solvent, or in a mixture of the two; generally, non-aqueousmedia like ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol, isopropanol, or acetonitrileare preferred. Lists of suitable salts are found in Remington'sPharmaceutical Sciences, 18th ed., Mack Publishing Company, Easton, Pa.,1990, p 1445, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference.

“Therapeutically effective amount” includes an amount of a compound ofthe present invention that is effective when administered alone or incombination to treat the desired indication.

“Alkyl” includes both branched and straight-chain saturated aliphatichydrocarbon groups having the specified number of carbon atoms. C₁₋₆alkyl, for example, includes C₁, C₂, C₃, C₄, C₅, and C₆ alkyl groups.Examples of alkyl include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, i-propyl, n-butyl,s-butyl, t-butyl, n-pentyl, s-pentyl, and n-hexyl.

Polymers of the present invention may be made in the form of randomcopolymers or block copolymers. A coupling agent may also be added tothe polymers of the present invention. A coupling agent is a reagentthat has a least two functional groups that are capable of covalentlybonding to two different monomers. Examples of coupling agents includetrifunctional or tetrafunctional polyols, oxycarboxylic acids, andpolybasic carboxylic acids (or acid anhydrides thereof). Other couplingagents include the difunctional groups (e.g., diols, diacids, diamines,and hydroxy-acids) previously discussed. The addition of the couplingagents causes the branching of long chains, which can impart desirableproperties in the molten state to the pre-polymer. Examples ofpolyfunctional coupling agents include trimethylol propane, glycerin,pentaerythritol, malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, trimesic acid,propane tricarboxylic acid, cyclopentane tetracarboxylic anhydride, andcombinations thereof.

A “pre-polymer” is a low-molecular weight polymer, as previouslydefined, that have reactive endgroups (e.g., hydroxy groups) that can befurther reactive with, for example, the lactone monomers.

The amount of coupling agent to be added before gelation occurs is afunction of the type of coupling agent used and the polymerizationconditions of the polymer or molecular weight of the pre-polymer towhich it is added. Generally in the range of from about 0.1 to about 10mole percent of a trifunctional or a tetrafunctional coupling agent maybe added based on the moles of polymers present or anticipated from thesynthesis.

The polymerization of a polyester of the present invention can beperformed under melt polycondensation conditions in the presence of anorganometallic catalyst at elevated temperatures. The organometalliccatalyst can be a tin-based catalyst (e.g., stannous octoate or dibutyltin oxide). The catalyst can be present in the mixture at a mole ratioof diol, dicarboxylic acid, and optionally lactone monomer to catalystwill be in the range of from about 15,000/1 to 80,000/1. The reactioncan be performed at a temperature not less than about 120° C. underreduced pressure. Higher polymerization temperatures may lead to furtherincreases in the molecular weight of the copolymer, which may bedesirable for numerous applications. The exact reaction conditionschosen will depend on numerous factors, including the properties of thepolymer desired, the viscosity of the reaction mixture, and the glasstransition temperature and softening temperature of the polymer. Desiredreaction conditions of temperature, time and pressure can be readilydetermined by assessing these and other factors. Generally, the reactionmixture will be maintained at about 220° C. The polymerization reactioncan be allowed to proceed at this temperature until the desiredmolecular weight and percent conversion is achieved for the copolymer,which will typically take about 15 minutes to 24 hours. Increasing thereaction temperature generally decreases the reaction time needed toachieve a particular molecular weight.

Polymerization conditions for the preparation of other types of polymersof the present invention (e.g., polyamides and polyurethanes) aredescribed in the literature. Those skilled in the art will recognizethat the polymers described herein can be made from known procedures.

Copolymers of the absorbable polymers of the present invention can beprepared by preparing a pre-polymer under melt polycondensationconditions, then adding at least one lactone monomer or lactonepre-polymer. The mixture could then be subjected to the desiredconditions of temperature and time to copolymerize the pre-polymer withthe lactone monomers.

A lactone pre-polymer is a pre-polymer formed by ring openingpolymerization with a known initiator (e.g., ethylene glycol, diethyleneglycol, glycerol, or other diols or triols).

The molecular weight of the pre-polymer as well as its composition canbe varied depending on the desired characteristic, which the pre-polymeris to impart to the copolymer. For example, the pre-polymers of thepresent invention, from which the copolymer is prepared, generally havea molecular weight that provides an inherent viscosity between about 0.2to about 2.0 deciliters per gram (dl/g) as measured in a 0.1 g/dlsolution of hexafluoroisopropanol at 25° C. Those skilled in the artwill recognize that the pre-polymers described herein can also be madefrom mixtures of more than one diol or dicarboxylic acid.

One of the beneficial properties of the polyesters of the presentinvention is that the ester linkages are hydrolytically unstable, andtherefore the polymer is bioabsorbable because it readily breaks downinto small segments when exposed to moist bodily tissue. In this regard,while it is envisioned that co-reactants could be incorporated into thereaction mixture of the dicarboxylic acid and the diol for the formationof the polyester pre-polymer, it is preferable that the reaction mixturedoes not contain a concentration of any co-reactant which would renderthe subsequently prepared polymer nonabsorbable. The reaction mixturecan be substantially free of any such co-reactants if the presencethereof results in a nonabsorbable polymer.

The polymers of the present invention can be melt processed by numerousmethods to prepare a vast array of useful devices. These polymers can beinjection or compression molded to make implantable medical and surgicaldevices, especially wound closure devices.

Alternatively, the polymers can be extruded to prepare fibers. Thefilaments thus produced may be fabricated into sutures or ligatures,attached to surgical needles, packaged, and sterilized by knowntechniques. The polymers of the present invention may be spun asmultifilament yarn and woven or knitted to form sponges or gauze, (ornon-woven sheets may be prepared) or used in conjunction with othermolded compressive structures as prosthetic devices within the body of ahuman or animal where it is desirable that the structure have hightensile strength and desirable levels of compliance and/or ductility.Examples include tubes, including branched tubes, for artery, vein, orintestinal repair, nerve splicing, tendon splicing, sheets for typing upand supporting damaged surface abrasions, particularly major abrasions,or areas where the skin and underlying tissues are damaged or surgicallyremoved.

Additionally, the polymers can be molded to form films which, whensterilized, are useful as adhesion prevention barriers. Anotheralternative processing technique for the polymers of the presentinvention includes solvent casting, particularly for those applicationswhere a drug delivery matrix is desired.

The polymers of the present invention can be used to coat a surface of asurgical article to enhance the lubricity of the coated surface. Thepolymer may be applied as a coating using conventional techniques. Forexample, the polymer may be solubilized in a dilute solution of avolatile organic solvent (e.g. acetone, methanol, ethyl acetate, ortoluene), and then the article can be immersed in the solution to coatits surface. Once the surface is coated, the surgical article can beremoved from the solution where it can be dried at an elevatedtemperature until the solvent and any residual reactants are removed.

For coating applications, the polymer should exhibit an inherentviscosity, as measured in a 0.1 gram per deciliter (g/dl) ofhexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP), between about 0.05-2.0 dl/g or about0.10-0.80 dl/g. If the inherent viscosity were less than about 0.05dl/g, then the polymer may not have the integrity necessary for thepreparation of films or coatings for the surfaces of various surgicaland medical articles. On the other hand, it is possible to use polymerswith an inherent viscosity greater than about 2.0 dl/g, though it may bedifficult to do so.

Although numerous surgical articles (including but not limited toendoscopic instruments) can be coated with the polymer of the presentinvention to improve the surface properties of the article, specificsurgical articles include surgical sutures, stents, and needles. Forexample the surgical article can be a suture, which can be attached to aneedle. The suture can be a synthetic absorbable suture. These suturesare derived, for example, from homopolymers and copolymers of lactonemonomers such as glycolide, lactide, ε-caprolactone, 1,4-dioxanone, andtrimethylene carbonate. The suture can be a braided multifilament suturecomposed of polyglycolide or poly(glycolide-co-lactide).

The amount of coating polymer to be applied on the surface of a braidedsuture can be readily determined empirically, and will depend on theparticular copolymer and suture chosen. Ideally, the amount of coatingcopolymer applied to the surface of the suture may range from about0.5-30 percent of the weight of the coated suture or from about 1.0-20weight percent, or from 1-5 percent by weight. If the amount of coatingon the suture were greater than about 30 weight percent, then it mayincrease the risk that the coating may flake off when the suture ispassed through tissue

Sutures coated with the polymers of the present invention are desirablebecause they have a more slippery feel, thus making it easier for thesurgeon to slide a knot down the suture to the site of surgical trauma.In addition, the suture is more pliable, and therefore is easier for thesurgeon to manipulate during use. These advantages are exhibited incomparison to sutures which do not have their surfaces coated with thepolymer of the present invention.

When the article of the present invention is a metal stent, the amountof coating applied to the surface of the article is an amount whichcreates a layer with a thickness ranging, for example, between about2-20 microns on the stent or about 4-8 microns. If the amount of coatingon the stent were such that the thickness of the coating layer wasgreater than about 20 microns, or if the thickness was less than about 2microns, then the desired performance of the stent as it is passedthrough tissue may not be achieved.

When the article of the present invention is a surgical needle, theamount of coating applied to the surface of the article is an amountwhich creates a layer with a thickness ranging, for example, betweenabout 2-20 microns on the needle or about 4-8 microns. If the amount ofcoating on the needle were such that the thickness of the coating layerwas greater than about 20 microns, or if the thickness was less thanabout 2 microns, then the desired performance of the needle as it ispassed through tissue may not be achieved.

The polymers of the present invention can also be used as apharmaceutical carrier in a drug delivery matrix. To form this matrixthe polymer can be mixed with a therapeutic agent to form the matrix.There are a variety of different therapeutic agents, which can be usedin conjunction with the polymers of the invention. In general,therapeutic agents which may be administered via the pharmaceuticalcompositions of the invention include, antiinfectives such asantibiotics and antiviral agents; analgesics and analgesic combinations;anorexics; antihelmintics; antiarthritics; antiasthmatic agents;anticonvulsants; antidepressants; antidiuretic agents; antidiarrheals;antihistamines; antiinflammatory agents; antimigraine preparations;antinauseants; antineoplastics; antiparkinsonism drugs; antipruritics;antipsychotics; antipyretics, antispasmodics; anticholinergics;sympathomimetics; xanthine derivatives; cardiovascular preparationsincluding calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers such as pindololand antiarrhythmics; antihypertensives; diuretics; vasodilatorsincluding general coronary, peripheral and cerebral; central nervoussystem stimulants; cough and cold preparations, including decongestants;hormones such as estradiol and other steroids, includingcorticosteroids; hypnotics; immunosuppressives; muscle relaxants;parasympatholytics; psychostimulants; sedatives; and tranquilizers; andnaturally derived or genetically engineered proteins, polysaccharides,glycoproteins, or lipoproteins.

The drug delivery matrix may be administered in any suitable dosage formincluding orally, parenterally, subcutaneously as an implant, vaginally,or as a suppository. Matrix formulations containing the polymers of thepresent invention may be formulated by mixing one or more therapeuticagents with the polymer. The therapeutic agent, may be present as aliquid, a finely divided solid, or any other appropriate physical form.Typically, but optionally, the matrix will include one or moreadditives, e.g., nontoxic auxiliary substances such as diluents,carriers, excipients, or stabilizers. Other suitable additives may beformulated with the polymers of the present invention andpharmaceutically active agent. If water is to be used, then it can beuseful to add it just before administration.

The amount of therapeutic agent will be dependent upon the particulardrug employed and medical condition being treated. Typically, the amountof drug represents about 0.001%-70%, 0.001%-50%, or 0.001%-20% by weightof the matrix.

The quantity and type of polymer incorporated into a composition (e.g.,parenterally delivered composition) will vary depending on the releaseprofile desired and the amount of drug employed. The product may containblends of polymers of the present invention to provide the desiredrelease profile or consistency to a given formulation.

The polymers of the present invention, upon contact with body fluidsincluding blood or the like, undergoes gradual degradation (mainlythrough hydrolysis) with concomitant release of the dispersed drug for asustained or extended period (as compared to the release from anisotonic saline solution). This can result in prolonged delivery (e.g.,over 1-2,000 hours or 2-800 hours) of effective amounts (e.g., 0.0001mg/kg/hour to 10 mg/kg/hour) of the drug. This dosage form can beadministered as is necessary depending on the subject being treated, theseverity of the affliction, and the judgment of the prescribingphysician.

Individual formulations of drugs and polymers of the present inventionmay be tested in appropriate in vitro and in vivo models to achieve thedesired drug release profiles. For example, a drug could be formulatedwith a polymer of the present invention and orally administered to ananimal. The drug release profile could then be monitored by appropriatemeans such as, by taking blood samples at specific times and assayingthe samples for drug concentration. Following this or similarprocedures, those skilled in the art will be able to formulate a varietyof formulations.

Functionalization

The functionalized phenolic compounds of the present invention aretypically prepared from a starting phenolic compound as shown below.

The desired X group(s) can be added using methods known to those ofskill in the art, some of which are described below.

Glycolic acid and lactic acid are also known as alpha hydroxy acids(AHA) present in fruits and other foods. These acids are present in manyhealthiest foods we eat and drink, and they are considered to be safewhen used correctly. Glycolic acid occurs naturally as the chief acidicconstituent of sugar cane juice and occurs in beet juice and unripegrapes. Its formula is HOCH₂COOH and is biodegradable. When glycolicacid is heated it readily loses water by self-esterification to formpolyglycolic acid. Glycolic acid can function as both an acid and analcohol. The process of attaching a glycolic acid moiety to the phenoliccompound is defined as glycolation and will be referred to as such indescribing this invention:

Lactic acid is a fermentation product of lactose. Lactic acid isproduced commercially for use in foods and pharmaceuticals. Manysurgical and orthopedic devices are made from polylactic acid. Theprocess of attaching a lactic acid moiety to the phenolic compound isdefined as lactolation and will be referred to as such in describingthis invention:

ε-Caprolactone is a cyclic monomer and is reactive, and the polymersderived are useful for tailoring specialty polyols andhydroxy-functional polymer resins with enhanced flexibility. The monomerpolymerizes under mild conditions to give low viscosity productssuperior to conventional aliphatic polyesters. Copolymers ofcaprolactone with glycolide and lactide exhibit unique physical andbiological properties as well as different hydrolysis profiles based onthe composition of the monomers. The process of attaching an open chainε-caprolactone moiety to the phenolic compound is defined as caprolationand will be referred to as such in describing this invention:

p-Dioxanone (1,4-dioxan-2-one) is a cyclic monomer and polymers are madevia ring opening polymerization. Polyesters derived from this monomerare used in making absorbable surgical devices with longer absorptionprofile (slower hydrolysis) compare to polyglycolic acid. The absorbablesurgical devices made from 1,4-dioxan-2-one are proved to bebiologically safe, and biocompatible. The process of attaching an openchain p-dioxanone moiety (dioxanone) to the phenolic compound is definedas dioxonation and will be referred to as such in describing thisinvention:

Many examples of both the phenolic compounds and the functionalizationmoieties have been shown to be safe and biocompatible. The newfunctionalized phenolics can have controllable hydrolysis profiles,improved bioavailability, improved efficacy and enhanced functionality.The difunctional compounds can readily polymerize into biodegradablepolyesters, polyester amides, polyurethanes, polydiamides, andpolyanhydrides, for example, useful for many applications, includingbiomedical applications, foodstuffs, nutritional supplements, cosmetics,medicaments, coatings and others readily apparent to one skilled in theart.

An object of this invention is to combine these molecules, such asglycolic acid, lactic acid, p-dioxanone, ε-caprolactone, —(CH₂)_(y)COO—,where y is one of the integers 2, 3, 4 and between 6 and 24 inclusive,and —(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂COO—, where z is an integer between 2 and 24inclusive, with phenolic compound, to form a new chemical entity.Preferential examples of functionalization molecules are glycolic acid,lactic acid, p-dioxanone, and ε-caprolactone. This functionalizationenhances the native value of the phenolic compound by releasing thephenolic moiety by hydrolysis or degradation of the compound. Thecompound degrades under controllable conditions in the environment, inthe body of an animal, for example a mammalian, including a human.

The glycolic acid moiety, lactic acid moiety, dioxanone moiety,caprolactone moiety, moieties of —(CH₂)_(y)COO— where y is one of thenumbers 2, 3, 4 and 6-24, and moieties of —(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂COO— where zis an integer between 2 and 24, including 2 and 24, have differenthydrolysis or degradation rates and times over which they release theactive phenolic moiety and thus do the functionalized phenolic acid madefrom them. The species used for functionalization supplies the releasetime or range dictated by the application. Glycolic acid based compoundshydrolyze faster than p-dioxanone based, where as lactic acid andcaprolactone based compounds take much longer to hydrolyze than glycolicacid and p-dioxanone based compounds. This desired time range may beobtained by using a combination of functionalized phenolic compounds,that is, a blend of two or more functionalized compounds made from anytwo or more of the species glycolide, lactide, dioxanone andpolydioxanone combined with one phenolic compound.

One aspect of the present invention combines the phenolic compound withone or more of the selected group of compounds to form a functionalizedphenolic compound with uses in medicine, as enhanced drugs, drugintermediates, cancer preventing agents, nutrition supplements,nutriceuticals, antioxidants, controlled release preparations, cosmeticapplications, flavors, coatings, drug intermediates, solvents for drugs,new monomers for polymerization, and when polymerized, as polymers forbiomedical applications, drugs, nutrition supplements, nutriceuticals,drug delivery, cosmetic applications, flavors, and coatings.

The array of functionalized phenolic compounds developed as an aspect ofthe invention, have a wide range of hydrolysis rates that arecontrollable. The specific moiety or combination of moieties used forfunctionalization yields a compound or mixture with specific hydrolysisranges.

The new functionalized phenolic compounds have more controllablehydrolysis profiles, improved bioavailability, improved efficacy andenhanced functionality. The difunctional compounds polymerize intobiodegradable polymers, for example, useful for applications, includingbiomedical applications, foodstuffs, cosmetics, medicaments, coatingsand other uses readily apparent to one skilled in the art.

The functionalized phenolics can be prepared according to any recognizedmethod, but the Williamson ether synthesis method is the preferredmethod.

Synthesis

Preparation of ethers is an important reaction for which a wide varietyof procedures have been developed during the last 100 years. The mostcommonly used method for the preparation of symmetrical andunsymmetrical ethers is the Williamson synthesis, involving a halide andan alkoxide. It is possible to mix the halide and alcohol with solid KOHand DMSO. The reaction involves an SN2 reaction in which an alkoxide ionreplaces a halogen, sulfonyl, or a sulfate group. Usually, alkyl halidesare used. The alkoxide can be prepared by the reaction of thecorresponding alcohol with an active metal such as metallic sodium or ametal hydride like NaH acting upon the alcohol. The resulting alkoxidesalt is then reacted with the alkyl halide (sulfonate or sulfate) toproduce the ether in an SN2 reaction.

Recently several new procedures for Williamson synthesis have developedin which the phase transfer catalysis (PTC) appear to very convenientand the reactions can be run under mild conditions with high yields.Most recently, it was reported that ethers could be prepared directlyfrom alcohol and alkyl halides under microwave irradiation in thepresence of a quaternary ammonium salt.

For the synthesis of aromatic ethers, the phenolic compound was reactedwith one member of the group Na metal, NaH, and potassium carbonate toform a phenoxide and then reacted with an alkyl halide to form anaromatic ether as shown below:

The first step of the Williamson ether synthesis is the reaction ofsodium hydride with a phenolic compound. Phenols are more acidic thanalkanols because of resonance stabilization of the conjugated anion.

The resulting phenoxide ion is a powerful nucleophile, and reacts wellwith alkyl halide to form an ether.

The alkyl halide should be primary so that the backside attack is notsterically hindered. When it is not primary, elimination usuallyresults.

The general procedure for functionalizing phenolic compounds: To amixture of phenolic compound, anhydrous potassium carbonate, sodiumiodide and disodium phosphate in anhydrous acetone, while refluxing, thealkyl halide is added and refluxed for a period of from a few hours toseveral days until the reaction is essentially complete. Then theacetone is distilled off, water is added, and crude product is filteredand recrystallized from a solvent or mixture of solvents. Some times theproducts are purified by column chromatography. Solvent systems,reaction conditions, and purification methods are modified based on thephenol compound.

The process of preparing a phenolic ester with glycolic acid is shownbelow:

Benzyloxy acetyl chloride (C₆H₅CH₂OCH₂COCl) can be prepared as describedin the following reaction scheme:

Using a similar method, C₆H₅CH₂OCH(CH₃)COCl, C₆H₅CH₂O(CH₂)₅COCl, andC₆H₅CH₂OCH₂CH₂OCH₂COCl were synthesized for preparation of phenolicesters.

Lactic acid can function as both an acid and an alcohol. This dualfunctionality leads to a variety of chemical reactions and valuablephysical properties. The process of preparing a phenolic ester withlactic acid is shown below:

ε-Caprolactone, can function as both an acid and an alcohol. This dualfunctionality leads to a variety of chemical reactions and valuablephysical properties. The process of preparing a phenolic ester withε-caprolactone is shown below:

p-Dioxanone can function as both an acid and an alcohol. This dualfunctionality leads to a variety of chemical reactions and valuablephysical properties. The process of preparing a phenolic ester withp-dioxanone is shown below:

Synthesis of Phenolic Amides:

Benzyloxyamides are prepared by reacting benzyloxy acetic acid with anamine using dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) as coupling agent, indichloromethane (DCM) as a solvent. The amine is dissolved in DCM andbenzyloxyacetic acid is added. While maintaining below room temperature,DCC solution in DCM is added dropwise. The reaction generally proceedscleanly for the formation of an amide. The urea formed is not soluble inDCM, and the urea can be filtered off to get the amide. In a secondmethod the amines are reacted with the acid chloride directly using abase, such as K₂CO₃, NaHCO₃ or triethyl amine to neutralize the HCl thatis formed during the reaction. Acetone is a good solvent for thisreaction. Both methods are suitable for preparing benzyloxyamides.

Synthesis of Phenolic Esters:

Conditions similar to those listed above can be used for preparingbenzyloxyesters.

Debenzylation

Debenzylations were done using 50% wet Pd/C (5%) with H pressure up to 4kg. MeOH or DMF can be as solvents. Dry Pd/C (5%) can be also used toavoid any moisture to avoid ester hydrolysis. DMF, MeOH, or Ethylacetate can be used for this reaction.

Biodegradable Chewing Gums

After conventional chewing gum is chewed, the gum cud that remains thatmust be discarded. Unfortunately, conventional gum cuds can easilyadhere to any dry surface, such as wood, concrete, paper and cloth. Whengum cuds are improperly discarded, they can be difficult to remove fromsuch surfaces, causing some environmental concerns. Recently, there hasbeen a move to develop a chewing gum which is either ingestible or thatcreates a gum cud that is easily removable and degradable. Therefore,one of the objects of the present invention is to develop hydrolyzableand flexible elastomers that can be used in conventional and specializedbiomedical chewing gum. Some of the compositions of the presentinvention can provide improved chewing gum and gum bases. The improvedchewing gum and gum bases are biodegradable and do not causeenvironmental concerns if improperly discarded.

Bioactive Formulations

In other aspects of the present invention some functionalized phenoliccompounds of the present invention are further manufactured intoformulations suitable for oral, rectal, parenteral (for example,subcutaneous, intramuscular, intradermal, or intravenous), transdermal,vitreal or topical administration. The most suitable route in any givencase will depend on the nature and severity of the condition beingtreated and on the nature of the particular active compound that isbeing used. The formulations of a pharmaceutical composition aretypically admixed with one or more pharmaceutically or veterinariallyacceptable carriers and/or excipients as are well known in the art.

Formulations suitable for oral administration may be presented indiscrete units, such as capsules, cachets, lozenges, or tablets, eachcontaining a predetermined amount of the active compound; as a powder orgranules; as a solution or a suspension in an aqueous or non-aqueousliquid; or as an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion.

Compositions of the present invention suitable for parenteraladministration conveniently comprise sterile aqueous preparations of theactive compounds, which preparations are preferably isotonic with theblood of the intended recipient.

Formulations suitable for rectal administration are preferably presentedas unit dose suppositories.

Formulations suitable for ocular or vitreal administration may bepresented as bioabsorbable coatings for implantable medical devices,injectables, liquids, gels or suspensions.

Formulations or compositions suitable for topical administration to theskin preferably take the form of an ointment, cream, lotion, paste, gel,spray, aerosol, or oil. Examples of carriers that conventionally usedinclude Vaseline, lanoline, polyethylene glycols, alcohols, andcombination of two or more thereof.

Formulations suitable for transdermal administration may be presented asdiscrete patches adapted to remain in intimate contact with theepidermis of the recipient for a prolonged period of time.

The active compounds may be provided in the form of foodstuffs ornutrition supplements, such as being added to, admixed into, coated,combined or otherwise added to a foodstuff. The term foodstuff is usedin its widest possible sense and includes liquid formulations such asdrinks including dairy products, biodegradable chewing gums, and otherfoods, such as health bars, desserts, etc. Food formulations containingcompounds of the invention can be readily prepared according to standardpractices.

Compounds of the formula used as medicaments or pharmaceuticals aretypically administered in a manner and amount as is conventionallypracticed. See, for example, Goodman and Gilman, The PharmaceuticalBasis of Therapeutics, current edition.

Compounds of the present invention have potent antioxidant activity andincreased acidity of their phenolic component, as well as the improvedbiodegradation provided by the functionalization, and thus find wideapplication in pharmaceutical and veterinary uses, in cosmetics such asmore effective skin creams to prevent skin ageing, in sun screens, infoods, health drinks, nutritional supplements, shampoos, and the like.

Examples of functionalized phenolic compounds of the present inventionare provided for some embodiments of the current invention. It can beextended to other species. This selection is not meant to limit thescope of the invention in any way. Other variations in the procedure maybe readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

EXAMPLE 1 4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methyl ester (1)

To a refluxing mixture of methyl 4-hydroxy benzoate (152 grams, 1 mol)and Methyl chloro acetate (136.2 grams, 1.255 mol) in anhydrous methanol(450 mL) under nitrogen was added 30% sodium methoxide solution inmethanol (180 mL, 1 mol) drop wise over a period of 2 hours. Furtherrefluxed for 16 hours, cooled to 5°, filtered, dried and recrystallizedfrom methanol to give pure 1 (157 grams, 70%) as a white shining powder.

The melting point was measured for all the products by using Polmon (MP96) melting point apparatus, and the melting point found to be92.2-93.8° C. For all the products IR was run using Perkin Elmer FTIRSpectrophotometer, Model: Spectrum RXI FTIR. The I.R of this confirmsthe structure. For all the products, NMR was run using Varian 200 MHzand tetramethyl-silane as the internal standard. The structure wasconfirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.82 (s,3H,Ester), 3.88(s, 3H,Ester), 4.68(s,2H,OCH₂), 6.91(dd,2H,Ar), 7.98 (dd,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 2 4-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-benzoic acid methyl ester (2)

To a mixture of methyl 4-hydroxy benzoate (75 grams, 493 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (270 grams, 1.954 mol) and Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3mmol) in anhydrous acetone (1400 mL) was added methyl 2-chloropropionate (90.3 grams, 737 mmol) and refluxed for 24 hours. Acetone wasdistilled and water (1000 mL) was added. Crude 2 was extracted intoEthyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purified by columnchromatography on silica gel using Hexane to give pure 2 (45 grams,38.5%) as a pale yellow syrup. The structure was confirmed by NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.65(d,3H,CH₃), 3.77 (s, 3H, Ester), 3.88(s, 3H,Ester), 4.34(q,1H,CH), 6.88(d,2H,Ar), 7.98 (d, 2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 3 4-(5-Methoxycarbonyl-pentyloxy)-benzoic acid methyl ester (3)

To a refluxing mixture of methyl 4-Hydroxy benzoate (25 grams, 164mmol), and anhydrous K₂CO₃ (62.5 grams, 452 mmol) in anhydrous acetone(300 mL) was added methyl 6-bromo hexanoate (42.5 grams, 203 mmol) andrefluxed for 48 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (300 mL) wasadded. Crude 3 was filtered dried and recrystallized from methanol togive pure 3 (33 grams, 72%) as a white powder. The melting was found tobe 42.5-44.5° C. The structure was confirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ1.54 (m, 2H, CH₂ ), 1.71(m, 2H, CH₂ ), 1.84(m, 2H, CH₂ ), 2.36 (t,2H,CH₂ ) 3.68(s,3H,Ester), 3.88 (s, 3H,Ester), 4.05(t,2H,OCH₂ ),6.88(d,2H,Ar), 7.94(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 4 4-(2-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-ethoxy)-benzoic acid methyl ester(4)

To a mixture of methyl 4-hydroxy benzoate (10 grams, 66 mmol), anhydrousK₂CO₃ (21 grams, 152 mmol) Sodium iodide (3 grams, 20 mmol) in anhydrousacetone (100 mL) was added (2-Bromoethoxy) acetic acid methyl ester (21grams, 106 mmol) and refluxed for 24 hours. Acetone was distilled andwater (100 mL) was added. Crude 4 extracted into ethyl acetate, distilloff Ethyl acetate and purified by column chromatography on silica gelusing Hexane:Ethyl acetate (9:1) as eluant to give pure 4 as a whitepowder. The melting was found to be 66-62.5° C. The structure wasconfirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.72 (s, 3H,ester), 3.88(s, 3Hester), 3.92(t, 2H,CH₂)4.20 (s, 2H,CH₂), 4.22(t,2H,CH₂), 6.90(d,2H Ar),7.94(d, 2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 5 2-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methyl ester (5)

To a mixture of methyl salicylate (100 grams, 657 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(360 grams, 2.605 mol) in anhydrous acetone (1000 mL) was added methylchloro acetate (94 grams, 866 mmol) and refluxed for 36 hours. Acetonewas distilled and water (1200 mL) was added. Crude 5 was extracted intoChloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄ distilled and purified by columnchromatography on silica gel using Hexane as eluant to give pure 5 (25grams, 17%) as a light yellow syrup. The structure was confirmed by NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.79(s, 3H,ester), 3.88(s,3H,ester), 4.70(s,2H,OCH₂), 6.88(dd,1H, Ar), 7.03 (m,1H,Ar), 7.42(m,1H,Ar), 7.81(dd,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 6 2-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-benzoic acid methyl ester (6)

To a mixture of methyl salicylate (100 grams, 657 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(360 grams, 2.605 mol) and Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3 mmol) inanhydrous acetone (1000 mL) was added methyl 2-chloro propionate (104grams, 849 mmol) and refluxed for 48 hours. Acetone was distilled andwater (1200 mL) was added. Crude 6 was extracted into Ethyl acetate,dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purified by column chromatography onsilica gel using Hexane as eluant to give pure 6 (35 grams, 22.4%) as alight yellow syrup. The structure was confirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃)δ 1.58(d, 3H,CH₃), 3.65(s,3H,ester), 3.82(s,3H,ester), 4.72(q,1H,CH),6.78 (d,1H,Ar), 6.85(m,1H,Ar), 7.32(m,1H,Ar), 7.74(d,1H Ar).

EXAMPLE 7 2-(5-Methoxycarbonyl-pentyloxy)-benzoic acid methyl ester

To a mixture of methyl salicylate (50 grams, 329 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(180 grams, 1.30 mol) and Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3 mmol) inanhydrous acetone (600 mL) was added methyl 6-bromo Hexanoate (76 grams,364 mmol) and refluxed for 40 hours. Acetone was distilled and water(750 mL) was added. Crude 7 was extracted into Ethyl acetate, dried overNa₂SO₄, distilled and purified by column chromatography on silica gelusing Hexane as eluant to give pure 7 (55 grams, 60%) as a light yellowsyrup. The structure was confirmed by NMR. The structure was confirmedby NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.60(m, 2H,CH₂), 1.72(m, 2H,CH₂), 1.77(m,2H,CH₂), 2.35(t, 2H,CH₂), 3.66 (s,3H,ester), 3.88(s,3H,ester),4.02(t,2H, OCH₂), 6.90(m,2H,Ar), 7.38(m,1H,Ar), 7.74(d,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 8 3-Methoxy-4-methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid ethyl ester(8)

To a mixture of Ethyl Vanillate (100 grams, 510 mmol), and anhydrousK₂CO₃ (300 grams, 2.17 mol) in anhydrous acetone (1000 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (123.8 grams, 1.14 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (1500 mL) was added. Crude 8 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture of toluene:Hexane(1:5) to give pure 8 (95.7 grams, 70%) as a white powder. The meltingpoint was found to be 72.7-74.3° C. The structure was confirmed by I.Rand NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.40 (t, 3H,CH₂ CH₃ ), 3.80(s, 3H, Ester),3.92(s, 3H,OCH₂ ), 4.38 (q, 2H,OCH₂ CH₃), 4.88(s,2H,OCH₂ ), 6.80(d,1H,Ar), 7.59(d,1H,Ar), 7.66(dd,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 9 3-Methoxy-4-(5-methoxycarbonyl-pentyloxy)-benzoic acid ethylester (9)

To a mixture of Ethyl vanillate (40 grams, 204 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(120 grams, 868 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (750 mL) was added methyl6-bromo hexanoate (56 grams, 268 mmol) and refluxed for 6 hours. Acetonewas distilled and water (600 mL) was added. Crude 9 was filtered, dried,and recrystallized from a mixture of Toluene:Hexane (1:6) to give pure 9(46 grams, 96.6%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be42.5-43.5° C. The structure was confirmed by I.R and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 1.38 (t, 3H,—OCH₂ CH₃ ), 1.52(m, 2H, CH₂ ), 1.69(m, 2H,CH₂ ),1.85(m, 2H, CH₂ ), 2.32(t, 2H, CH₂ ), 3.62(s, 2H, OCH₃ ), 3.84(s, 2H,Ester), 4.02(t, 2H, —OCH₂ ), 4.34(q, 2H,—OCH₂ CH₃), 6.83(d, 1H, Ar),7.28(dd,1H,Ar), 7.58(dd,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 10 2,5-Bis-methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methyl ester (10)

To a mixture of methyl 2,5-dihydroxy-benzoate (34 grams, 202 mmol), andanhydrous K₂CO₃ (204 grams, 1.476 mol), Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3mmol) in anhydrous acetone (1000 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate(60.7 grams, 559 mmol) and refluxed for 20 hours. Acetone was distilledand water (1500 mL) was added. Crude 10 was filtered dried andrecrystallized from Toluene to give pure 10 (50.5 grams, 80%) as a creamcolor powder. The melting point was found to be 90-94° C. The structurewas confirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.78 (s, 3H,Ester), 3.80(s,3H,Ester), 3.89(s, 3H,Ester), 4.59 (s, 2H,OCH₂ ), 4.63(s, 2H,OCH₂ ),6.88 (d, 1H,Ar), 7.02(dd,1H,Ar), 7.32(d,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 11 4-Ethoxycarbonylmethoxy-3,5-dimethoxy-benzoic acid methylester (11)

To a mixture of methyl syringate (100 grams, 472 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(250 grams, 1.809 mol) in anhydrous acetone (1200 mL) was added Ethylbromo acetate (113 grams, 677 mmol) and refluxed for 48 hours. Acetonewas distilled and water (1200 mL) was added. Crude 11 was filtered,dried, and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 11 (105 grams, 75%)as a white powder. The melting point was found to be 90.5-92.5° C. Thestructure was confirmed by I.R and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.32 (t,3H,CH₂ CH₃ ), 3.88(s, 3H,Ester), 3.90(s, 6H,OCH₃ ), 4.25 (q, 2H,CH₂ CH₃), 4.69(s,2H,OCH₂ ), 7.24 (s, 2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 12 (4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-acetic acid methyl ester(12)

To a mixture of methyl 4-Hydroxy phenyl acetate (100 grams, 602 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (260 grams, 1.88 mol), Sodium iodide (21 grams, 140mmol) in anhydrous acetone (1500 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (75grams, 691 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours. Acetone was distilled andwater (1200 mL) was added. Crude 12 was extracted into Ethyl acetate,dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purified by column chromatography onsilica gel using benzene as eluant to give pure 12 (65 grams, 45.4%) asa white power. The melting point was found to be 52.5-55.4° C. Thepurity by HPLC was determined by using Waters 515 HPLC, and found to be98.5%. The structure was confirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.52 (s,2H,CH₂), 3.68(s,3H,ester), 3.78(s,3H,ester), 4.60(s,2H,OCH₂ ),6.80(d,2H,Ar), 7.16 (d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 13 2-(4-Methoxycarbonylmethyl-phenoxy)-propionic acid methylester (13)

To a mixture of methyl 4-hydroxy phenyl acetate (100 grams, 602 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (260 grams, 1.88 mol), Sodium iodide (12 grams, 80 mmol)in anhydrous acetone (1500 mL) was added methyl 2-chloro propionate(90.3 grams, 737 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours. Acetone was distilledand water (1200 mL) was added. Crude 13 was extracted into Ethylacetate, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purified by columnchromatography on silica gel using Hexane as eluant to give pure 13 (100grams, 66%) as a low melting solid. The purity was found to be 99.1% byHPLC. The structure was confirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.62 (d,3H,CH₃), 3.55(s,2H,CH₂), 3.68(s,3H,ester), 3.75(s,3H,ester),4.75(q,1H,CH), 6.82 (d,2H,Ar), 7.16(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 14 6-(4-Methoxycarbonylmethyl-phenoxy)-hexanoic acid methylester (14)

To a mixture of methyl 4-hydroxy phenyl acetate (125 grams, 752 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (325 grams, 2.352 mol) in anhydrous acetone (1500 mL)was added methyl 6-bromo hexanoate (203 grams, 971 mmol) and refluxedfor 8 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1500 mL) was added. Crude14 was extracted into Ethyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled andpurified by column chromatography on silica gel using Hexane as eluantto give pure 14 (125 grams, 56.6%) as a light yellow syrup. Thestructure was confirmed by NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.46 (m, 2H,CH₂),1.70(m,2H,CH₂), 1.78(m,2H,CH₂), 2.30(t,2H, CH₂), 3.48(s,2H,CH₂), 3.62(s,6H,ester), 3.90(t,2H,OCH₂ ), 6.76(d,2H,Ar), 7.12(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 15 3-(4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-propionic acid methylester (15)

To a mixture of methyl 3(4-hydroxy phenyl)propionate (60 grams, 333mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (180 grams, 1.30 mol) in anhydrous acetone (1liter) was added methyl chloro acetate (74.2 grams, 684 mmol) andrefluxed for 40 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1000 mL) wasadded. Crude 15 extracted into chloroform, distilled chloroform and highvacuum distilled to get pure 15 (30 grams, 36%) as a colorless lowmelting solid. Bp₁₂ 210-213° C. The structure was confirmed by NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 2.58 (t, 2H, CH₂ ), 2.90(t, 2H, CH₂ ), 3.62(s, 3H,ester), 3.80(s, 3H, ester), 4.60(s, 3H, OCH2), 6.80(d, 2H, Ar), 7.12(d,2H, Ar).

EXAMPLE 16 3-(4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-acrylic acid methyl ester(16)

To a mixture of methyl 4-hydroxy cinnamale (20 grams, 112 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (48 grams, 347 mmol), Sodium iodide (2 grams, 13.3mmol), disodium phosphate (2 grams, 14.2 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (200mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (14.6 grams, 135 mmol) and refluxedfor 8 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (200 mL) was added. Crude16 was filtered, dried, and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 16(20 grams, 71.4%) as a white shining powder. The melting point was foundto be 107-108.8° C. The structure was confirmed by IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 3.76(s, 3H, ester), 3.78 (s, 3H, Ester), 4.60(s, 2H,—OCH₂ ),6.24(d, 1H, J=17.9 Hz, CH═CH), 6.84(dd, 2H, Ar), 7.44(dd, 2H,Ar),7.56(d,1H,J=17.9 Hz, CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 17 3-(3,4-Bis-methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-acrylic acid methylester (17)

To a mixture of methyl caffiate (25 grams, 129 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(145 grams, 1.049 moles), Sodium iodide (10 grams, 67 mmol), disodiumphosphate (10 grams, 71 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (750 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (48.7 grams, 449 mmol) and refluxed for 20 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (1 liter) was added. Crude 17 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from methanol to give pure 17 (27grams, 62%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be120.2-123.1° C. The structure was confirmed by IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 3.81 (s,9H,Ester), 4.75(s,4H,O—CH₂), 6.23(d, 1H, J=17.5 Hz,double bond) 6.80 (d,1H, Ar), 7.09(m, 2H, Ar), 7.59(d,1H,J=17.5 Hz,double bond).

EXAMPLE 18 3-[3,4-Bis-(1-methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-phenyl]-acrylic acidmethyl ester (18)

To a mixture of methyl caffiate (25 grams, 125 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(133 grams, 962 mmol), Sodium iodide (10 grams, 66.7 mmol), disodiumphosphate (10 grams, 70.8 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (500 mL) was addedmethyl 2-chloro propionate (56 grams, 457 mmol) and refluxed for 100hours. Acetone was distilled and water (750 mL) was added. Crude 18 wasextracted into ethyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purifiedby column chromatography on silica gel using a mixture of Ethylacetate:Hexane (1:9) to give pure 18 (25 grams, 53.2%) as a syrup.

EXAMPLE 196-[2-(5-Methoxycarbonyl-pentyloxy)-4-(2-methoxycarbonyl-vinyl)-phenoxy]-hexanoicacid methyl ester (19)

To a mixture of methyl caffiate (32 grams, 165 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(186 grams, 1.346 mol), Sodium iodide (13 grams, 87 mmol), disodiumphosphate (13 grams, 92 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (100 mL) was addedmethyl 6-bromohexanoate (122 grams, 584 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (1000 mL) was added. Crude 19 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from chloroform to give pure 19 (52grams, 72%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be57-60.8° C. The structure was confirmed by IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃)δ 1.75 (m,12H,—CH₂—), 2.38(t,4H, —CH₂—), 3.69(s, 6H, ester) 3.80 (s,3H,Ester), 4.05(t, 4H, O—CH₂ ), 6.25(d,1H,J=16 Hz, CH═CH), 6.80(d,1H,Ar),7.05 (m, 2H, Ar), 7.59 (d,1H,J=16 Hz, CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 20 3-(3-Methoxy-4-methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-acrylic acidmethyl ester (20)

To a mixture of methyl ferulate (38 grams, 183 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(88 grams, 637 mmol), Sodium iodide (8 grams, 53 mmol), disodiumphosphate (8 grams, 56 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (800 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (27.2 grams, 251 mmol) and refluxed for 10 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (750 mL) was added. Crude 20 wasfiltered and recrystallized from methanol and further purified by columnchromatography on silica gel using chloroform as eluant to give pure 20(36 grams, 70.6%) as a white powder. The melting point found to be105-106.8° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 3.80 (s, 6H, ester), 3.92 (s, 3H, —OCH₃ ), 4.64 (s, 2H, OCH₂), 6.26 (d, 1H, J=17.5 Hz, CH═CH), 6.78 (d, 1H, Ar), 7.05 (m, 2H, Ar),7.60 (d, 1H, J=17.5 Hz, CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 21 3-[3-Methoxy-4-(1-methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-phenyl]-acrylicacid methyl ester (21)

To a mixture of methyl ferulate (52 grams, 250 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(120 grams, 868 mmol), Sodium iodide (10.5 grams, 70 mmol), disodiumphosphate (10.5 grams, 74 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (1040 mL) was addedmethyl 2-chloro propionate (42 grams, 343 mmol) and refluxed for 48hours. Acetone was distilled and water (750 mL) was added. Crude 21 wasextracted in to chloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and the crudewas recrystallized from a mixture of chloroform:hexane (1:6) to givepure 21 (40 grams, 54.4%) as a white powder. The melting point was foundto be 69-70.7° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 1.62 (d, 3H, CH₃ ), 3.66 (s, 3H, ester), 3.79 (s, 3H, —OCH₃ ),3.86 (s, 3H, ester), 4.79 (q, 1H, OCH), 6.24 (d, 1H, J=16.9 Hz, —CH═CH),6.75 (d,1H,Ar), 7.01 (m,2H, Ar), 7.55 (d, 1H, J=16.9 Hz, —CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 22 6-[2-Methoxy-4-(2-methoxycarbonyl-vinyl)-phenoxy]-hexanoicacid methyl ester (22)

To a mixture of methyl ferulate (44 grams, 211 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(102 grams, 738 mmol), Sodium iodide (8.8 grams, 59 mmol), disodiumphosphate (8.8 grams, 62 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (900 mL) was addedmethyl 6-bromo hexanoate (61 grams, 292 mmol) and refluxed for 16 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (600 mL) was added. Crude 22 wasfiltered, dried and recrystallized from methanol to give pure 22 (52grams, 73.2%) as a white fluffy powder. The melting point was found tobe 90-91.8° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 1.53 (m, 2H,—CH₂ —), 1.72(m, 2H, —CH2), 1.91(m, 2H, —CH₂ —),2.38 (q, 2H, CH₂), 3.65 (s, 3H, ester), 3.80 (s, 3H, —OCH₃ ), 3.89 (s,3H, ester), 6.30(d, 1H, J=17 Hz, CH═CH), 6.81 (d,1H,Ar), 7.02 (d,2H Ar),7.12 (dd,1H,Ar), 7.62 (d, 1H, J=17 Hz, CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 23 3-(3,5-Dimethoxy-4-methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-acrylicacid methyl ester (23)

To a mixture of methyl sinapinate (40 grams, 168 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(80 grams, 579 mmol), Sodium iodide (10 grams, 66.7 mmol), disodiumphosphate (10 grams, 70.62 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (1000 mL) wasadded methyl chloro acetate (20 grams, 224.5 mmol) and refluxed for 10hours. Acetone was distilled and water (300 mL) was added. Crude 23 wasfiltered and purified by column chromatography on silica gel usingchloroform to give pure 23 (21 grams, 40.3%) as a white powder. Themelting point was found to be 90-93° C. The structure was confirmed withIR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.80(s, 6H, —OCH₃ ), 3.88(s, 6H, ester),4.62 (s, 2H, OCH₂ ), 6.30(d, 1H, J=17.6 Hz, CH═CH), 6.73 (s, 2H, Ar),7.58(d, 1H, J=17.6 Hz, CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 243-[3,5-Dimethoxy-4-(1-methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-phenyl]-acrylicacid methylester (24)

To a mixture of methyl sinapinate (20 grams, 84 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(40 grams, 289 mmol), Sodium iodide (2 grams, 13.3 mmol), disodiumphosphate (5 grams, 35.4 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (500 mL) was addedmethyl 2-chloro propionate (15 grams, 122.8 mmol) and refluxed for 14days. Acetone was distilled and water (200 mL) was added. Crude 24 wasfiltered and recrystallized from a mixture of chloroform:hexane (1:5) togive pure 24 (16 grams, 78.4%) as a white powder. The melting point wasfound to be 115.5-113° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.58(d, 3H,—CH₃ ), 3.78(s, 3H, —OCH₃ ), 3.80(s, 3H,OCH₃ ), 3.82(s, 6H, ester), 3.84(s, 3H, ester), 4.73 (q, 1H, CH),6.35(d, 1H, J=17.2 Hz, CH═CH), 6.75 (s, 2H, Ar), 7.60(d, 1H, J=17.2 Hz,CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 25 6-[2,6-Dimethoxy-4-(2-methoxycarbonyl-vinyl)-phenoxy]-hexanoic acid methyl ester (25)

To a mixture of methyl sinapinate (30 grams, 126 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(69 grams, 499 mmol), Sodium iodide (7.5 grams, 50 mmol), disodiumphosphate (15 grams, 106 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (300 mL) was addedmethyl 6-bromo hexanoate (33 grams, 158 mmol) and refluxed for 12 days.Acetone was distilled and water (300 mL) was added. Crude 25 wasfiltered and purified by column chromatography on silica gel usinghexane:Ethyl acetate (99:1) to give pure 25 (4.5 grams, 9.7%) as a whitepowder. The melting point was found to be 87-89° C. The structure wasconfirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.54(d, 2H,—CH₂ ), 1.78(m,4H,—CH₂ ), 2.32(t, 2H,—CH₂ ), 3.69(s, 3H, —OCH₃ ), 3.80(s, 3H, —OCH₃ ),3.88(s, 6H, ester), 3.98(t, 2H —OCH₂ ), 6.28(d, 1H, J=17.7 Hz, CH═CH),6.71 (s, 2H, Ar), 7.58(d, 1H, J=17.7 Hz, CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 263-[3,5-Dimethoxy-4-(2-methoxycarbonylmethoxy-ethoxy)-phenyl]-acrylicacid methyl ester (26)

To a mixture of methyl sinapinate (20 grams, 84 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(50 grams, 361 mmol), Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.4 m mol), disodiumphosphate (7 grams, 49.4 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (300 mL) was added(2-Bromo-ethoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester (22 grams, 112 mmol) andrefluxed for 12 days. Acetone was distilled and water (200 mL) wasadded. Crude 26 was filtered and purified by column chromatography onsilica gel using hexane:Ethyl acetate (95:5) to give pure 26 (2 grams,6.7%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be 66-68° C. Thestructure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.73(s, 3H,ester), 3.78(s, 3H, ester), 3.85(s, 6H, OCH₃), 3.88(t, 2H, OCH₂ ), 4.15(t, 2H, OCH₂), 4.25 (t, 2H, OCH₂), 6.26(d, 1H, J=17.5 Hz, CH═CH), 6.70(s, 2H, Ar), 7.56(d, 1H, J=17.5 Hz, CH═CH).

EXAMPLE 27 6-[4-(5-Methoxycarbonyl-pentyloxy)-phenoxy]-hexanoic acidmethyl ester (27)

To a mixture of Hydroquinone (20 grams, 18.2 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (190grams, 1.375 mmol), sodium iodide (3 grams, 20 mmol) in anhydrousacetone was added methyl 6-bromo hexanoate and refluxed for 60 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (500 mL) was added. Crude 27 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from methanol to give pure 27 (43grams, 64.7%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be77.2-78.9° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 1.52 (m, 4H,CH₂ ), 1.75(m,12H, CH₂ ), 2.30(t, 4H,CH₂ ), 3.62(s, 6H, Ester), 3.86 (t, 4H,OCH₂ ), 6.75 (s,4H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 28 (2-Acetyl-4-ethoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid ethylester (28)

To a mixture of 2′,5′-Dihydroxy acetophenone (25 grams, 164 mmol), andanhydrous K₂CO₃ (150 grams, 1.08 mol) in anhydrous acetone (1000 mL) wasadded ethyl bromo acetate (75.3 grams, 451 mmol) and refluxed for 78hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1000 mL) was added. Crude 28 wasfiltered dried and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 28 (40grams, 75%) as a wheat color powder. The melting point found to be56.8-59° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 1.34 (t, 6H, CH₂ CH₃ ), 2.70(s, 3H, CH₃ ), 4.28(q, 4H, CH₂CH₃), 4.60 (s, 2H, OCH₂ ), 4.68(s,2H,OCH₂ ), 6.80 (d,1H,Ar),7.08(dd,1H,Ar), 7.28(d,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 29 2-(6-Hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid (29)

A mixture of Naproxen (500 grams, 2.774 mmol) and 48% HBr (1500 mL) wasrefluxed for 10 hours, poured onto ice water (3000 mL), and stirred for30 minutes. Crude 29 was filtered, dried (380 grams, 81%), and used assuch for the next stage.

EXAMPLE 30 2-(6-Hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid methyl ester

To a solution of methanol (2100 mL) and sulphuric acid (84 mL) was added2-(6-Hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid 29 (420 grams, 1.944 mmol),and refluxed for 6 hours. Methanol (1000 mL) was distilled and thecooled reaction mass was poured onto ice water (3000 mL) Crude 30 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture of Ethylacetate:Hexane (1:5) to give pure 30 (400 grams, 89.5%) as a whitefluffy powder. The melting point found to be 89.5-92° C. The structurewas confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.60(d,3H,CH₃),3.70(s,3H,Ester), 3.88 (q,1H,CH), 5.36(bs,1H,OH), 7.08(m,2H,Ar),7.48(m,1H,Ar), 7.65(m,3H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 31 2-(6-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acidmethyl ester (31)

To a mixture of 2-(6-Hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid methylester 30 (175 grams, 761 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (315 grams, 2.279 mmol),sodium iodide (21 grams, 140 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (2000 mL) wasadded methyl Chloro acetate (104 grams, 958 mmol) and refluxed for 6hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1500 mL) was added. Crude 31 wasextracted into Ethyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purifiedby column chromatography on silica gel using Benzene as eluant to givepure 31 (125 grams, 54.3%) as a pale yellow syrup. The structure wasconfirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.57 (d,3H,CH₃), 3.64(s,3H,Ester), 3.78 (s,3H,Ester), 3.80(q,1H,CH), 4.70(s,1H,Ar),7.22(d,1H,Ar), 7.36(m,2H,Ar), 7.68(m,3H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 32 2-[6-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-naphthalen-2-yl]-propionicacid methylester (32)

To a mixture of 2-(6-hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid methylester 30 (150 grams, 652 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (455 grams, 3.292 mol),sodium iodide (22.5 grams, 150 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (2000 mL) wasadded methyl 2-Chloro propionate (107.5 grams, 877 mmol) and refluxedfor 50 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1500 mL) was added. Crude32 was extracted into Ethyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled andpurified by column chromatography on silica gel using Hexane as eluantto give pure 32 (175 grams, 85%) as a light yellow syrup. The structurewas confirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.55(d,3H,CH₃),1.68(d,3H,CH₃), 3.62(s,3H,Ester), 3.72(s,3H,Ester), 3.82 (q,1H,CH),3.91(q,1H,OCH), 7.02(s,1H,Ar), 7.18(d,1H,Ar), 7.36(d,1H,Ar), 7.68(m,3H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 33 6-[6-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethyl)-naphthalen-2-yloxy]-hexanoicacid methyl ester (33)

To a mixture of 2-(6-hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid methylester 30 (150 grams, 652 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (480 grams, 3.473 mol)sodium iodide (22.5 grams, 150 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (2000 mL) wasadded methyl 6-bromo hexanoate (216 grams, 1.033 mol) and refluxed for60 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1500 mL) was added. Crude 33was extracted into Ethyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled andpurified by column chromatography on silica gel using Hexane as eluantto give pure 33 (130 grams, 55.6%) as a light yellow syrup. Thestructure was confirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.59(d,3H,CH₃),1.60(d,2H,CH₂), 1.75(m,2H,CH₂), 1.89(m,2H,CH₂), 2.38(t,2H,CH₂),3.69(s,6H,Ester), 3.88(q,1H,CH), 4.08(t,2H,OCH₂), 7.10(m,2H,Ar),7.40(d,1H,Ar), 7.68(m,3H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 34 (2-Oxo-2H-chromen-7-yloxy)-acetic acid methyl ester (34)

To a mixture of 7-hydroxy coumarin (100 grams, 617 mmol) and anhydrousK₂CO₃ (400 grams, 2.894 mol) in anhydrous acetone (2000 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (123.8 grams, 1.14 mol) and refluxed for 6 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (2000 mL) was added. Crude 34 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 34 (110grams, 76.38%) as a cream color shining powder. The melting point wasfound to be 145-147.1° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.80 (s, 3H,Ester), 4.69(s, 2H,OCH₂ ), 6.24(d, 1H,Pyran), 6.76 (d, 1H,Ar), 6.88(dd,1H,Ar), 7.41(d,1H,Ar),7.62(d,1H,pyran).

EXAMPLE 35 (2-Oxo-2H-chromen-4-yloxy)-acetic acid methyl ester (35)

To a mixture of 4-hydroxy coumarin (100 grams, 617 mmol) and anhydrousK₂CO₃ (450 grams, 3.256 mol) in anhydrous acetone (2000 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (155 grams, 1.43 mols) and refluxed for 8 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (2000 mL) was added. Crude 34 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 34 (25grams, 17.4%) as a white fluffy powder. The melting point was found tobe 179.6-181.2° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 3.84 (s, 3H,Ester), 4.80(s, 2H,OCH₂ ), 5.58(s,1H,Pyran), 7.28(m, 2H,Ar), 7.59(m,1H,Ar), 7.88(dd,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 36 (4-Methyl-2-oxo-2H-chromen-6-yloxy)-acetic acid methyl ester(36)

To a mixture of 6-hydroxy-4-methyl coumarin (110 grams, 624 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (176 grams, 1.273 mol), Sodium iodide (11 grams, 73.4mmol), disodium phosphate (44 grams, 310 mmol) in anhydrous acetone(1100 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (81.7 grams, 753 mmol) andrefluxed for 12 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1200 mL) wasadded. Crude 36 was filtered and recrystallized from a mixture ofmethanol:chloroform (2:1) to give pure 36 (112 grams, 72.2%) as a whiteshining powder. The melting point was found to be 153.8-155.5° C. Thestructure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 2.39 (s, 3H,CH₃ ), 3.79 (s, 3H, ester), 4.64 (s, 2H, OCH₂ ), 6.25 (s, 1H, pyran),7.05 (m, 2H, Ar), 7.25 (d, 1H, Ar).

EXAMPLE 37[3-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-4-methyl-2-oxo-2H-chromen-6-yloxy]-acetic acidmethyl ester (37)

To a mixture of 6-hydroxy-3-(4′-methoxy phenyl)-4-methyl coumarin (150grams, 523 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (300 grams, 2.17 mol) in anhydrousacetone (1500 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (148.5 grams, 1.369mol) and refluxed for 8 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1000 mL)was added. Crude 37 was filtered dried and recrystallized from methanolto give pure 37 (140 grams, 74.5%) as a cream color shining powder. Themelting point was found to be 120.8-122.3° C. The structure wasconfirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 2.28 (s, 3H, CH₃ ),3.80(s, 3H,Ester), 3.84(s, 3H,OCH₃ ), 4.66 (s, 2H,OCH₂ ),6.92(dd,2H,Ar), 7.20 (m, 5H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 38(6-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-4-methyl-2-oxo-2H-chromen-7-yloxy)-acetic acidmethyl ester (38)

To a mixture of 6,7-Dihydroxy-4-methyl coumarin (80 grams, 416 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (240 grams, 1.737 mol), Sodium iodide (16 grams, 107mmol), disodium phosphate (64 grams, 451 mmol) in anhydrous acetone(1200 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (109 grams, 1000 mmol) andrefluxed for 12 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1500 mL) wasadded. Crude 38 was filtered, dried, and recrystallized from acetic acidto give pure 38 (105 grams, 75%) as a white fluffy powder. The meltingpoint was found to be 170-171.8° C. The structure was confirmed with IRand NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 2.38 (s, 3H, —CH₃ ), 3.79 (s, 3H, ester),3.81 (s, 3H, Ester), 4.65 (s, 2H, —OCH₂ ), 4.67 (s, 1H, 2H, —OCH₂ ),6.15 (s, 1H, pyran), 6.72 (s, 1H, Ar), 7.19 (s, 1H, Ar).

EXAMPLE 39 (7-Oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-4-yloxy)-acetic acid methylester (39)

To a mixture of Bergaptol (10 grams, 49.5 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (20grams, 144.7 mmol), Sodium iodide (2.4 grams, 16 mmol), disodiumphosphate (2.4 grams, 17 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (250 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (9.3 grams, 85.6 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (100 mL) was added. Crude 39 wasfiltered and recrystallized in a mixture of methanol:chloroform (9:1) togive pure 39 (3 grams, 22.1%) as a white powder. The melting point wasfound to be 180.6-182.8° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.81(s, 2H, ester), 4.97(s, 2H,—OCH₂ ), 6.32(d, 1H,J=12.4 Hz, pyran), 6.83(d, 1H, J=1.1 Hz, furan), 7.21(s, 1H, Ar),8.28(d, 1H, J=12.4 Hz, pyran).

EXAMPLE 40 2-(7-oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-4-yloxy)-propionic acid methylester (40)

To a mixture of Bergaptol (10 grams, 49.5 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (20grams, 144.7 mmol), Sodium iodide (2.4 grams, 16 mmol), disodiumphosphate (2.4 grams, 17 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (250 mL) was addedmethyl 2-chloro propionate (10 mL, 87.7 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (100 mL) was added. Crude 40 wasfiltered and recrystallized in a mixture of methanol:chloroform (9:1) togive pure 40 (5.5 grams, 38.5%) as a white powder. The melting point wasfound to be 149.6-151.6° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.78(d, 3H,—CH₃ ), 3.68(s, 3H, ester), 5.18(q, 1H,CH), 6.31(d, 1H, J=12.1 Hz, pyran), 6.84(d, 1H, J=1.1 Hz, furan),7.22(s, 1H, Ar), 7.64(d, 1H, J=1.1 Hz, furan), 8.36(d, 1H, J=12.1 Hz,pyran).

EXAMPLE 41 6-(7-oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-4-yloxy)-hexanoic acid methylester (41)

To a mixture of Bergaptol (5 grams, 24.7 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (12.5grams, 90 mmol), Sodium iodide (7.5 grams, 50 mmol), disodium phosphate(12.5 grams, 88 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (250 mL) was added methyl6-bromo hexanoate (7.5 grams, 35.9 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (100 mL) was added. Crude 41 wasfiltered and recrystallized in methanol to give pure 41 (3 grams, 36.8%)as a white powder. The melting point was found to be 98.8-101.8° C. Thestructure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.62 (m, 3H,—CH₂ ), 1.75(m, 2H,—CH₂ ), 1.92(m, 2H,—CH₂ ), 2.38(t, 2H,—CH₂ ), 3.68(s,3H, ester), 4.45(t, 2H, OCH₂ ), 6.22(d, 1H, J=12.5 Hz, pyran), 6.90(s,1H, furan), 7.11(s, 1H, Ar), 7.55(s, 1H, furan), 8.19(d, 1H, J=12.5 Hz,pyran).

EXAMPLE 42 (7-Oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-9-yloxy)-acetic acid methylester (42)

To a mixture of Xanthotoxol (10 grams, 49.5 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (20grams, 145 mmol), sodium iodide (2.5 grams, 16.7 mmol), disodiumphosphate (2.5 grams, 17.7 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (250 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (9.3 grams, 85.5 mmol) and refluxed for 10 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (25 mL) was added. Crude 42 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture ofmethanol:chloroform (4:1) to give pure 42 (9 grams, 66.4%) as a whiteshining powder. The melting point was found to be 139.5-141° C. Thestructure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.81 (s,2H,Ester), 5.18(s, 2H, OCH₂ ), 6.36(d, 1H,J=12.5H_(z), pyran), 6.79 (d,1H, J=1H_(z), Furan), 7.38 (s,1H,Ar), 7.65 (d, 1H, J=1H_(z), Furan),7.74 (d, 1H,J=12.5H_(z) pyran).

EXAMPLE 43 2-(7-Oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-9-yloxy)-propionic acid methylester (43)

To a mixture of Xanthotoxol (10.5 grams, 52 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (21grams, 152 mmol), sodium iodide (2.6 grams, 17.3 mmol) Disodiumphosphate (2.6 grams, 18.4 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (270 mL) was addedmethyl 2-chloro propionate (11.3 grams, 92.2 mmol) and refluxed for 12hours. Acetone was distilled and water (150 mL) was added. Crude 43 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture of chloroform:Hexane(1:5) to give pure 43 (3.5 grams, 23.5%) as a white powder. The meltingpoint was found to be 104.5-105.6° C. The structure was confirmed withIR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.78 (d, 3H, CH₃ ), 3.78(s, 2H,OCH₂ ),5.34(q, 1H,OCH), 6.32 (d, 1H,J=12.6H_(z), Pyran), 6.78 (d,1H,J=1.1H_(z),Furan), 7.32 (s, 1H,Ar), 7.68 (d, 1H,J=1.1H_(z) Furan)7.73(d,1H,J=12.6 H_(z),Pyran).

EXAMPLE 44 6-(7-Oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-9-yloxy)-hexanoic acid methylester (44)

To a mixture of Xanthotoxol (10 grams, 49.5 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (25grams, 180 mmol), sodium iodide (15 grams, 100 mmol), disodium phosphate(25 grams, 177 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (500 mL) was added methyl6-bromo hexanoate (15 grams, 72 mmol) and refluxed for 18 hours. Acetonewas distilled and water (200 mL) was added. Crude 44 was extracted intoethyl acetate, solvent distilled and purified by column chromatographyon silica gel using benzene as a eluant to give pure 44 (1.5 grams,9.2%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be 49-50.5° C.The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.63 (m,6H, —CH₂ ), 2.35(t, 2H,—CH₂ ⁻), 3.62(s, 3H,Ester), 4.42 (t, 2H,OCH₂ )6.31(d,1H,J=12.6H_(z), Pyran), 6.79 (d,1H,J=1 H_(z),Furan), 7.31(s,1H,Ar), 7.65 (d, 1H,J=1H_(z), Furan), 7.73(d,1H,J=12.6 H_(z), Pyran).

EXAMPLE 45 Psoralen quinine (45)

9-methoxy psoralene (30 grams, 138.7 mmol) was dissolved in 900 mLglacial acetic acid. To this solution was added 900 mL of 15% aqueouschromium trioxide solution. The resulting solution was brought just toboiling on the hot plate then poured immediately into 7500 mL water andcooled. The product was filtered, washed with ethanol to give 8 gramscrude 45 as a rose powder (Ref: J. Org. chem. 1959, 24, 523-526).

EXAMPLE 46 4,9-Dihydroxy psoralen (46)

Psoralen quinone 45 (5 grams, 23.2 mmol) was suspended in 1250 mL waterand heated on the steam bath. This suspension was saturated with sulfurdioxide by bubbling the gas through the hot liquid for 10 minutes. Atthe end of this time, all the material had dissolved giving the solutiona light green color. Upon cooling, green crystals 46 formed filtered anddried to give pure 46 (4.2 grams, 83.3%). (Ref: J. Org. chem. 1959, 24,523-526).

EXAMPLE 47(4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-7-oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-9-yloxy)-aceticacid methyl ester (47)

To a mixture of 4,9-dihydroxy psoralene 46 (10 grams, 45.8 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (200 grams, 1.447 mol), Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3mmol), disodium phosphate (20 grams, 141.6 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (5liter) was added methyl chloro acetate (20 mL, 228.2 mmol) and refluxedfor 16 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1 liter) was added. Crude47 was extracted into chloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled andpurified by column chromatography on silica gel using benzene:ethylacetate (9:1) to give pure 47 (1 gram, 6.02%) as a off white powder. Themelting point was found to be 165.5-169° C. The structure was confirmedwith NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.82 (s, 6H, Ester), 4.90 (s, 2H, OCH2),5.05 (s, 2H, OCH₂), 6.38 (d, 1H, J=12.5 Hz, pyran), 6.90 (d, 1H, J=1 Hz,furan), 7.69 (d, 1H, J=1 Hz, furan), 8.38 (d, 1H, J=12.5 Hz, pyran).

EXAMPLE 486-[4-(5-Methoxycarbonyl-pentyloxy)-7-oxo-7H-furo[3,2-g]chromen-9-yloxy]-hexanoicacid methyl ester (48)

To a mixture of 4,9-dihydroxy psoralene 46 (15 grams, 68.8 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (300 grams, 2.17 mol), Sodium iodide (7.5 grams, 50mmol), disodium phosphate (30 grams, 212.5 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (5liter) was added methyl 6-bromo hexanoate (75 grams, 358.8 mmol) andrefluxed for 16 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1 liter) wasadded. Crude 48 was extracted into ethyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄,distilled and purified by column chromatography on silica gel usingbenzene:ethyl acetate (95:5) to give pure 48 (325 mg, 1%) as a off-whitepowder. The melting point was found to be 75-78° C. The structure wasconfirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.70 (m, 12H, —CH₂—), 2.25 (t,4H, —CH₂—), 3.65 (s, 6H, Ester), 4.35 (t, 4H, OCH₂), 6.38 (d, 1H, J=12.5Hz, pyran), 6.91 (d, 1H, J=1 Hz, furan), 7.61 (d, 1H, J=1 Hz, furan),8.13 (d, 1H, J=12.5 Hz, pyran).

EXAMPLE 49 (4-Oxo-3-phenyl-4H-chromen-7-yloxy)-acetic acid methyl ester(49)

To a mixture of 7-Hydroxy isoflavone (35 grams, 147 mmol), anhydrousK₂CO₃ (84 grams, 608 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (500 mL) was added ethylbromo acetate (29 grams, 174 mmol) and refluxed for 8 hours. Acetone wasdistilled and water (500 mL) was added. Crude 49 was filtered, dried,and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 49 (33 grams, 72.4%) as awhite shining powder. The melting point was found to be 105-106.5° C.The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.31 (t,3H,OCH₂,CH₃ ), 4.30(q, 2H, OCH₂ , CH₃), 4.70(s, 2H,OCH₂ ), 6.84 (d,1H,Ar), 7.05 (dd,1H,Ar), 7.41 (m, 3H,Ar), 7.57 (m, 2H,Ar), 7.97(s, 1H,Pyran), 8.24(d,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 50 6-(4-Oxo-3-phenyl-4H-chromen-7-yloxy)-hexanoic acid methylester (50)

To a mixture of 7-Hydroxy isoflavone (20 grams, 84 mmol), anhydrousK₂CO₃ (84 grams, 362 mmol) sodium iodide (4 grams, 27 mmol), disodiumphosphate (4 grams, 28 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (250 mL) was addedmethyl 6-bromo hexanoate (22 grams, 105 mmol) and refluxed for 12 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (400 mL) was added. Crude 50 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from methanol to give pure 50 (22grams, 71.5%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be119.3-122.3° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 1.52 (m, 2H,CH₂ ), 1.72(m, 2H, CH₂ ), 1.88(m, 2H,CH₂ ), 2.34(t, 2H, CH₂ ), 3.68 (s,3H,Ester), 4.02 (t, 2H,—OCH₂ ) 6.78 (d, 1H,Ar),6.95 (dd, 1H, Ar), 7.38(m,3H,Ar), 7.52(m,2H,Ar), 7.90(s,1H,Pyran),8.24(d,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 51 6-[3-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy]-hexanoicacid methyl ester (51)

To a mixture of 7-hydroxy-4′-methoxy isoflavone (10 grams, 37.3 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (30 grams, 217 mmol), sodium iodide (2 grams, 13.3 mol),disodium phosphate (3 grams, 21.2 mmol) in anhydrous acetone was addedmethyl 6-bromo hexanoate (13 grams, 62.2 mmol) and refluxed for 28hours. Acetone was distilled and water (150 mL) was added. Crude 51 wasfiltered, dried and purified by column chromatography on silica gelusing chloroform as eluant to give pure 51 (8 grams, 54.2%) as a whitepowder. The melting point was found to be 130-133° C. The structure wasconfirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.56 (m, 2H,CH₂ ),1.74(m,2H, CH₂ ), 1.84(m,2H CH₂ ), 2.38(t 2H,CH₂ ), 3.66(s,3H,ester),3.82 (s,3H,OCH₃ ), 4.04 (t,2H,OCH₂ ), 6.86(s,1H,Ar), 6.92(d,2H,Ar),7.24(d,2H,Ar), 7.84 (s,1H,Pyran), 8.16(d,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 52[3-(4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy]-aceticacid methyl ester (52)

To a mixture of 4′,7-dihydroxy isoflavone (20 grams, 79 mmol), anhydrousK₂CO₃ (100 grams, 723 mmol), Sodium iodide (8 grams, 53.4 mmol),disodium phosphate (8 grams, 57 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (600 mL) wasadded methyl chloro acetate (29.2 grams, 269 mmol) and refluxed for 6hours. Acetone was distilled and water (600 mL) was added. Crude 52 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 52 (22grams, 70%) as a white powder. The melting point was found to be163-165.7° C. The structure was confined with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 3.69(s, 3H, ester), 3.80 (s, 3H, Ester), 4.68(s, 2H, OCH₂ ),4.79(s, 2H, OCH₂ ), 6.83(d, 1H, Ar), 6.88(dd,2H, B-ring), 7.02 (dd, 1H,Ar), 7.46 (dd,2H,B-ring), 8.00(s,1H,pyran), 8.18(dd,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 53[6-Methoxy-3-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy]-acetic acidmethyl ester (53)

To a mixture of 4′,6-Dimethoxy-7-Hydroxyisoflavone (5 grams, 16.8 mmol),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (10 grams, 72 mmol), sodium iodide (1 gram, 6.7 mmol),disodium phosphate (1 gram, 7.1 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (60 mL) wasadded methyl chloro acetate (2.3 grams, 21 mmol) and refluxed for 8hours. Acetone was distilled and water (40 mL) was added. Crude 53 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture ofmethanol:chloroform (1:1) to give pure 53 (3 grams, 48.4%) as a whitefluffy powder. The melting point was found to be 179-180.5° C. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 3.80 (s, 6H,OCH₃ ), 3.98(s,3H,ester), 4.76(s, 2H,OCH₂ ),6.72(s,1H,Ar), 6.90 (d, 2H, Ar), 7.42 (d,2H,Ar), 7.62(s,1H,Ar),7.88(s,1H,Pyran).

EXAMPLE 54[6-Methoxy-3-(4-methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy]-aceticacid methyl ester (54)

To a mixture of Glycitein (5 grams, 17.6 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (20grams, 144.7 mmol), Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3 mmol), disodiumphosphate (5 grams, 35.4 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (100 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (5.8 mL, 65.1 mmol) and refluxed for 20 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (100 mL) was added. Crude 54 wasfiltered and recrystallized in a mixture of methanol:chloroform (6:1) togive pure 54 (5 grams, 66.3%) as a white powder. The melting point wasfound to be 151-153.5° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.81(s, 3H, ester), 3.83(s, 3H, ester), 4.01(s, 3H,—OCH₃ ), 4.70(s, 2H,—OCH₂ ), 4.82(s, 2H,—OCH₂ ), 6.80(s, 1H, Ar),6.98(d, 2H, B-ring), 7.53(d, 2H, B-ring), 7.68(s, 1H, Ar), 7.96(s, 1H,pyran).

EXAMPLE 556-{6-Methoxy-3-[4-5-methoxycarbonyl-pentyloxy)-phenyl]-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy}-hexanoicacid methyl ester (55)

To a mixture of Glycitein (5 grams, 17.6 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (20grams, 144.7 mmol), Sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3 mmol), disodiumphosphate (5 grams, 35.4 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (100 mL) was addedmethyl 6-bromo hexanoate (10 grams, 47.8 mmol) and refluxed for 26hours. Acetone was distilled and water (100 mL) was added. Crude 55 wasfiltered and purified by column chromatography on silica gel usinghexane:Ethyl acetate (8:2) to give pure 55 (1 gram, 10.5%) as a palerose powder. The melting point was found to be 100-105° C. The structurewas confirmed with IR and NMR.

EXAMPLE 56{2-Methoxy-4-[(8-methyl-non-6-enoylamino)-methyl]-phenoxy}-acetic acidmethyl ester (56)

To a mixture of Capsaicin (17 grams, 55.7 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (26grams, 188 mmol), sodium iodide (4.5 grams, 30 mmol) and Disodiumphosphate (4.5 grams, 32 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (425 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (9 grams, 83 mmol) and refluxed for 6 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (150 mL) was added. Crude 56 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from toluene to give pure 56 (15grams, 71.4%) as a white power. The melting point was found to be99.5-103.5° C. It was analyzed by HPLC and found to be 99.3% pure.

EXAMPLE 572-{2-Methoxy-4-[(8-methyl-non-6-enoylamino)-methyl]-phenoxy}-propionicacid methyl ester (57)

To a mixture of Capsaicin (2 grams, 6.56 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (3grams, 22 mmol), sodium iodide (2 grams, 14.2 mmol) in anhydrous acetone(50 mL) was added methyl 2-chloro propionate (1.2 grams, 10 mmol) andrefluxed for 16 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (15 mL) wasadded. Crude 57 was filtered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixtureof chloroform:Hexane (1:5) to give pure 57 (0.8 grams, 31.2%) as a whitepower. The melting point was found to be 62.3-64° C.

EXAMPLE 586-{2-Methoxy-4-[(8-methyl-non-6-enoylamino)-methyl]-phenoxy}-hexanoicacid methyl ester (58)

To a mixture of Capsaicin (2 grams, 6.56 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (3grams, 22 mmol), sodium iodide (2 grams, 13.3 mmol) and Disodiumphosphate (2 grams, 14.2 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (50 mL) was addedmethyl 6-bromo Hexanoate (2 grams, 9.6 mmol) and refluxed for 24 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (15 mL) was added. Crude 58 wasfiltered, dried and purified by column chromatography on silica gelusing Benzene:Ethyl acetate (9:1) to give pure 58 (1.5 grams, 52.8%) asa pale white power. The melting point was found to be 69.2-70.8° C.

EXAMPLE 59 (4-Acetylamino-phenoxy)-acetic acid ethyl ester (59)

To a mixture of Paracetamol (300 grams, 1.984 mol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(1.80 Kg, 7.814 mmol) in anhydrous acetone (3 liters) was added ethylbromo acetate (452 grams, 2.7 mol) and refluxed for 16 hours. Acetonewas distilled and water (5 liter) was added. Crude 59 was filtered,dried, and recrystallized from a mixture of toluene:Hexane (1:5) to givepure 59 (377 grams, 80%) as a white shining powder. The melting pointwas found to be 104.2-106.2° C.

EXAMPLE 60 (4-Amino-phenoxy)acetic acid HCl (60)

A mixture (4-acetylamino-phenoxy)-acetic acid ethyl ester 59 (375 grams,1.582 mmol), in concentrated hydrochloric acid (9.36 liters) wasrefluxed for 12 hours. Excess concentrated hydrochloric acid wasdistilled off in vacuum and filtered hot. The mixture was cooled to 10°C., filtered and dried to give pure 60 (250 grams, 77.6%) as a wheatcolored powder. The melting point was found to be 224-226° C. Thestructure was confirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (D₂O) δ 4.68(s, 2H, OCH2),3.65(s,3H,ester), 7.0(d,2H,Ar), 7.30(d,2H,Ar

EXAMPLE 61 (4-Amino-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester (61)

To a mixture (4-Amino-phenoxy)acetic acid HCl 60 (250 grams, 1.228 mol),in methanol (5 liters) was passed dry HCl gas at 10° C. for 1 hour andrefluxed for 10 hours. Methanol (3.5 liters) was distilled and ice water(1 liter) was added and the pH was adjusted to 7.5 with K₂CO₃. Crude 61was filtered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture ofChloroform:Hexane (1:5) to give pure 61 (130 grams, 58.5%) as a lightbrown powder The melting point was found to be 65-66.8° C.

EXAMPLE 62 2-(4-Acetylamino-phenoxy)-propionic acid methyl ester (62)

To a mixture of Paracetamol (150 grams, 992 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (540Kg, 3.91 mol), sodium iodide (18 grams, 120 mmol) in anhydrous acetone(3 liters) was added methyl 2-chloro propionate (180 grams, 1.469 mmol)and refluxed for 80 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (3 liter) wasadded. Crude 62 was extracted into chloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄,distilled and added hexane (750 mL), filtered and recrystallized inmethanol to give pure 62 (95 grams, 40.4%) as a white powder. Themelting point was found to be 96.5-98.2° C. The product was tested byHPLC and found to be 99%+ pure. The structure was confirmed with NMR.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.60(d, 3H,CH₃), 2.08(s, 3H,O═C—CH₃),3.76(s,3H,ester), 4.66(q,1H,CH), 6.72 (d,2H,Ar), 7.32(d,2H,Ar),8.04(bs,1H,NH).

EXAMPLE 63 2-(4-Amino-phenoxy)-propionic acid (63)

To a mixture 2-(4-acetylamino-phenoxy)-propionic acid methyl ester 62(320 grams, 1.35 mol) in concentrated hydrochloric acid (8 liters) wasrefluxed for 48 hours. Excess concentrated hydrochloric acid wasdistilled in vacuum and filtered hot. The mixture was cooled to 10° C.,filtered and dried to give pure 63 (240 grams, 81.7%) as a brown powder.The melting point was found to be 175-180° C.

EXAMPLE 64 2-(4-Amino-phenoxy)-propionic acid methyl ester (64)

To a mixture of 2-(4-Amino-phenoxy)-propionic acid 63 (240 grams, 1.103mmol), in Methanol (4.8 liters) was passed dry HCl gas at 10° C. for 1hour and refluxed for 48 hours. Methanol (2.5 liter) was distilled, icewater (1 liter) was added and the pH was adjusted to 7.5 with K₂CO₃.Crude 64 was extracted into chloroform, washed with 5% NaHCO₃ solution,water, dried over Na₂SO₄ and distilled to give 64 (80 grams, 37.2%) as abrown syrup. The structure was confirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ1.56(d, 3H,CH₃), 2.9(bs, 2H,—NH₂), 3.72(s,3H,ester), 4.58(q,1H,CH), 6.53(d,2H,Ar), 6.68(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 65 6-(4-Acetylamino-phenoxy)-hexanoic acid methyl ester (65)

To a mixture of Paracetamol (250 grams, 1.654 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(800 grams, 5.789 mmol), sodium iodide (17 grams, 113 mmol) in anhydrousacetone (5 liters) was added methyl 6-bromo hexanoate (470 grams, 2.25mmol) and refluxed for 60 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (3liter) was added. Crude 65 was filtered, dried, and recrystallized froma mixture of chloroform:Hexane (1:5) to give pure 65 (195 grams, 66%) asa white powder. The melting point was found to be 96.4-98.8° C. Theproduct was tested by HPLC and found to be 99%+ pure. The structure wasconfirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.54(m, 2H,CH₂), 1.80(m, 4H,CH₂), 2.14(s, 3H, O═C—CH₂), 2.38(t, 2H, CH₂), 3.68(s,3H,ester),3.92(t,2H,OCH₂), 6.68(d,2H,Ar), 7.05 (bs,1H,NH), 7.38 (d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 66 6-(4-Amino-phenoxy)-hexanoic acid Hydrochloride (66)

To a mixture of 6-(4-Acetylamino-phenoxy)-hexanoic acid methyl ester 65(290 grams, 1.04 moles), in concentrated hydrochloric acid (7.12 Liter)was refluxed for 48 hours. Excess concentrated hydrochloric acid wasdistilled off in vacuum and filtered hot. The mixture was cooled to 10°C., filtered and dried give pure 66 (150 grams, 55.6%) as a brownpowder. The melting point was found to be 155-160° C.

EXAMPLE 67 6-(4-Amino-phenoxy)-hexanoic acid methyl ester (67)

To a mixture of 6-(4-Amino-phenoxy)-hexanoic acid Hydrochloride 66 (150grams, 578 mmol), in methanol (3 liters) was passed dry HCl gas at 10°C. for 1 hour and refluxed for 48 hours. Methanol (1.5 liter) wasdistilled, ice water (1 liter) was added and the pH was adjusted to 7.5with K₂CO₃. Crude 67 was extracted into chloroform, washed with 5%NaHCO₃ solution, water, dried over Na₂SO₄ and distilled to give 67 (60grams, 43.8) as a thick brown syrup. The structure was confirmed withNMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.5 (m, 2H,CH₂), 1.72(m, 4H, CH₂), 2.34(t, 2H,CH₂), 3.66(s,3H,ester), 3.85(t,2H,OCH₂), 6.56(d,2H,Ar), 6.68(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 68 (4-Formylphenoxy)acetic acid methyl ester (68)

To a mixture of 4-hydroxy benzaldehyde (200 grams, 1.64 mol), anhydrousK₂CO₃ (600 grams, 4.34 mol) and sodium iodide (20 grams, 133 mol) inanhydrous acetone (2500 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (223 grams,2.055 mol) and refluxed for 12 hours. Acetone was distilled and water(1800 mL) was added. Crude 68 was extracted in to chloroform, dried overNa₂SO₄, distilled and purified by column chromatography on silica gelusing hexane as eluant to give pure 68 (210 grams, 66.1%) as a whitepowder.

EXAMPLE 69 (4-Hydroxymethyl-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester (69)

To a solution of (4-Formylphenoxy)acetic acid methyl ester 68 (160grams, 825 mmol) in methanol (800 mL) at 0° C. was added Sodiumborohydrate (18 grams, 476 mmol) in small portions, further stirred at0° C. for 2 hours and poured on to ice water (1500 mL). The pH ofmixture was adjusted to 2 with concentrated hydrochloric acid. Crude 69was extracted into chloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purifiedby column chromatography on silica gel using hexane:ethyl acetate (7:3)to give 69 (100 grams, 62%) as white powder

EXAMPLE 70 (4-Acetoxymethyl-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester (70)

A solution of (4-hydroxymethyl-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester 69 (100grams, 509 mmol), acetic anhydride (250 mL) and pyridine (20 mL) wasrefluxed for 4 hours. Reaction mixture was poured in to ice water (1000mL) and crude 70 was extracted into chloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄, anddistilled. The crude was vacuum distilled to give pure 70 (75 grams,61.7%) as a light yellow syrup, Bp₁₅ 206-210° C. The structure wasconfirmed with NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 2.05 (s, 3H,O═C—CH₃), 3.78(s,3H,ester), 4.62(s, 2H,OCH₂), 5.02 (s, 2H, CH₂), 6.88 (d,2H,Ar), 7.33 (d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 71 (4-Formyl-2-methoxy-phenoxy)acetic acid methyl ester (71)

To a mixture of Vanillin (125 grams, 821.5 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (300grams, 2.17 mol) and sodium iodide (10 grams, 66.7 mmol) in anhydrousacetone (1250 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (111 grams, 1.023 mol)and refluxed for 8 hours. Acetone was distilled and water (1200 mL) wasadded. Crude 71 was filtered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixtureof Toluene:Hexane (1:5) to give pure 71 (139 grams, 75.5%) as a whitepowder. The melting point was found to be 93.5-95.5° C. The structurewas confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.80 (s, 3H,ester),3.96(s, 3H,OCH₃), 4.78(s, 2H,OCH₂), 6.82(d, 1H,Ar), 7.38(m, 2H,Ar),9.82(s 1H,CHO).

EXAMPLE 72 (4-Hydroxymethyl-2-methoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester(72)

To a solution of (4-Formyl-2-methoxy-phenoxy)acetic acid methyl ester 71(50 grams, 223 mmol) in methanol (500 mL) at 0° C. was added Sodium borohydrate (4 grams, 106 mmol) in small portions, further stirred at 0° C.for 30 minutes and poured on to ice water (200 mL). The pH of mixturewas adjusted to 2 with concentrated hydrochloric acid. Crude 72 wasextracted into chloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄ and distilled to give 72(40 grams, 62%) as a light yellow syrup.

EXAMPLE 73 (4-Acetoxymethyl-2-methoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester(73)

A solution of (4-Hydroxymethyl-2-methoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid methylester 72 (40 grams, 177 mmol), Acetic anhydride (80 mL) and pyridine (4mL) was refluxed for 4 hours. Reaction mixture was poured in to icewater (200 mL) and crude 73 was extracted into chloroform, dried overNa₂SO₄, and distilled. The crude was vacuum distilled to give pure 73(30 grams, 64%) as a color less liquid, B_(p15) 210° C. The structurewas confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 2.08 (s, 3H,O═C—CH₃),3.78(s, 3H,ester), 3.90(s, 3H, OCH₃), 4.65(s, 2H,OCH₂), 5.00 (s, 2H,CH₂), 6.76(d,1H,Ar), 6.80 (d, 2H,Ar), 6.85 (dd,1H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 74 [2-(4-Nitrophenoxy)-ethoxy]acetic acid methyl ester (74)

To a mixture of 4-Nitrophenol (5 grams, 36 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃ (20grams, 145 mmol) and sodium iodide (2 grams, 13.3 mmol) in anhydrousacetone (100 mL) was added (2-Bromoethoxy)acetic acid methyl ester (11grams, 56 mmol) and refluxed for 24 hours. Acetone was distilled andwater (100 mL) was added. Crude 74 was filtered, dried and purified bycolumn chromatography on silica gel using benzene as eluant give pure 74(4 grams, 43.6%) as a white fluffy powder. The melting point was foundto be 96-97.8° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃+DMSO) δ 3.72 (s, 3H,ester), 3.94(t, 2H,OCH₂), 4.18(s, 2H,OCH₂),4.30(t, 2H,OCH₂), 7.08(d, 2H,Ar), 8.18(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 75 [2-(4-Amino-phenoxy)-ethoxy]-acetic acid methyl ester (75)

[2-(4-Nitrophenoxy)-ethoxy]acetic acid methyl ester 74 (1 grams, 3.9mmol) was dissolved in anhydrous ethyl acetate (20 mL), palladium carbon(10%, 0.1 gram) added and the mixture stirred under an atmosphere of Husing balloon for 30 minutes. The catalyst was filtered, the filtrateconcentrate hexane (3 mL) added, filtered solid to give 75 (625 mg,70.9%) as a light brown powder. The melting point was found to be51-52.5° C. The structure was confirmed with IR and NMR. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) 3.04 (bs, 2H,NH₂), 3.72 (s, 3H,ester), 3.88(t, 2H,OCH₂), 4.08(t,2H,OCH₂), 4.20(s, 2H,OCH₂), 6.58(d, 2H,Ar), 6.70(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 76 4-Carboxymethoxy-benzoic acid (76)

4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methyl ester 1 (50 grams, 223mmol) was added to a solution of 2.5 M sodium hydroxide (250 mL) andheated to 80° C. for 5 hours. The reaction mixture was dilated withwater (100 mL) and pH adjusted to 1 with concentrated HCl. Crude 76 wasfiltered, dried and given hot ethyl acetate slurry to give 76 (40 grams,91.4%) as a white powder. M.p: >280° C.

EXAMPLE 77 4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acidmethoxycarbonyl methyl ester (77)

To a mixture of 4-carboxymethoxy-benzoic acid 76 (22 grams, 112.2 mmol),triethylamine (29.4 grams, 290.5 mmol) in acetone (100 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (31 grams, 285.6 mmol) drop wise, later heated toreflux for 18 hours. The solids were filtered, acetone distilled andwater (100 mL) was added. Crude 77 was filtered, dried and purified bycolumn chromatography on silica gel using chloroform as eluant to givepure 77 (25 grams, 65.5%) as a white powder. M.p: 61-64° C.

EXAMPLE 78 4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methoxycarbonylmethylester (78)

To a mixture of 4-hydroxy benzoic acid (210 grams, 1.519 mole),anhydrous K₂CO₃ (945 grams, 6.838 mol) in anhydrous dimethyl formamide(2 liter) at 90° C. was added methyl chloro acetate (388 grams, 3.575mol) drop wise and maintained 90° C. for 16 hours. Reaction mixture wascooled to room temperature and poured onto ice water (3 liter). Crude 78was extracted into chloroform, dried over Na₂SO₄, distilled and purifiedby column chromatography on silica gel using hexane as eluant to givepure 78 (35 grams, 8.2%) as a white powder. M.p: 53-57° C. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 3.80(s,3H, ester), δ 3.81(s,3H, ester), 4.68(s,2H,OCH₂),4.88(s, 2H,OCH₂), 6.92(d,2H,Ar), 8.04(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 79 2-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methoxycarbonylmethylester (79)

To a mixture of Salicylic acid (10 g, 72.46 mmol), Triethylamine (8.8 g,86.96 mmol) in acetone (50 mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (9.4 g,86.66 mmol) drop wise and heated to reflux for 10 hrs. The Solids werefiltered off and to the acetone layer was added Potassium carbonate (25g, 180.89 mmol), Sodium Iodide (2 g, 13.34 mmol), disodium Phosphate (2g, 14.16 mmol), methyl chloro acetate (9.4 g, 86.66 mmol) and refluxedfor 16 hrs. Acetone was distilled and water (125 mL) added. The crude 79was extracted into chloroform, washed with 5% sodium bicarbonatesolution (2×50 mL), water (2×50 mL), dried over sodium sulphate anddistilled. The crude 79 was purified by column chromatography on silicagel using benzene to get pure 79 (12 g, 58.7%) as a syrup.

EXAMPLE 80 2-Carboxymethoxy-benzoic acid (80)

To 10% Solution of Sodium hydroxide (475 mL) was added2-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methyl ester 5 (95 grams, 424mmol) and heated to 80° C. for 4 hours. Reaction mixture was cooled toroom temperature and pH adjusted so 2 with dilute Hydrochloric acid. Thecrude 80 was purified by dissolving in 10% NaOH and precipitating byacidifying with HCl, to get pure 80 (65 grams, 78.2%) as white powder.M.p: 189-192° C.

EXAMPLE 81 2-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acidmethoxycarbonyl methyl ester (81)

To mixture of 2-Carboxymethoxy-benzoic acid 80 (34 grams, 173.5 mmol)Triethylamine (37 grams, 365.6 mmol) in acetone (100 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (39 grams, 359 mmol) drop wise, later stirredunder reflux for 24 hours. The solids were filtered off, acetonedistilled and cold water (150 mL) was added. Crude 81 was extracted intochloroform, washed with 5% Sodium bicarbonate (2×100 mL), water (2×100mL), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 81 was purifiedby column chromatography on silica gel using Hexane as eluant to getpure 81 (31 grams, 52.5%) as a light yellow syrup.

EXAMPLE 82 (4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester(82)

To a mixture of sodium hydride (60%, 92 grams, 2.3 moles) in DMF (400mL) at 0° C. was added hydroquinone (100 grams, 909 mmol) carefully andstirred for 30 minutes. Methyl chloro acetate (247 grams, 2.276 moles)was added drop wise and later stirred at room temperature for 2 hours.Reaction mixture was carefully quenched into ice water (2 lit). Crude 82was filtered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture of Ethylacetate:Hexane (1:6) to give pure 82 (95 grams, 41.1%) as a whitepowder. M.p: 96-98° C. ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.68(s,3H,Ester), 4.54(s,2H,OCH₂), 6.82(s,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 83 (4-Carboxymethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid (83)

(4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid methyl ester 82 (100grams, 394 mmol) was added to 3.25 M-sodium hydroxide solution (600 mL)and heated to 70° C. for 20 hours and poured onto ice cold water (1 lit)and the pH adjusted to 1 with concentrated hydrochloric acid. Crude 83was filtered, dried, and recrystallized from DMF by precipitating withwater to give pure 83 (60 grams, 67.4%) as a white powder. M.p:254-256.5° C. ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃+DMSO, d₆) 4.44(s,2H,OCH₂), 6.72(s,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 84 (4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acidmethoxycarbonyl methyl ester (84)

To a mixture of (4-Carboxymethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid 83 (50 grams, 221mmol), Triethylamine (51 grams, 504 mmol) in acetone (250 mL) was addedmethyl chloro acetate (53 grams, 488 mmol) drop wise and heated toreflux for 18 hours. The solids were filtered, acetone distilled andwater (200 mL) was added. Crude 84 was extracted into chloroform, washedwith 5% sodium bicarbonate solution (2×100 mL), water (2×100 mL), driedover sodium sulphate and distilled. Crude 84 was recrystallized from amixture of chloroform:Hexane (1:6) to give pure 84 (57 grams, 69.7%) asa white powder. M.p: 124-126° C. ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.80(s, 3H,Ester),4.70(s,2H,OCH₂), 4.72(s,2H,OCH₂), 6.90(s,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 852-{2-[4-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethoxycarbonylmethoxy)-phenoxy]-acetoxy}-propionicacid methyl ester (85)

To mixture of (4-Carboxymethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid 83 (20 grams, 88.4mmol), Triethylamine (45 grams, 444.7 mmol) in Acetone (300 mL) wasadded methyl chloroacetate (32.5 grams, 265 mmol) drop wise at refluxtemperature and further refluxed for 48 hours. The solids were filtered,acetone distilled and water (200 mL) was added. Crude 85 was extractedinto chloroform, washed with 5% Sodium bicarbonate (2×100 mL), water(2×100 mL), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 85 waspurified by column chromatography over silica gel using chloroform aseluant to get pure 85 (11 grams, 31.2%) as a light yellow syrup. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.5(d,3H,CH₃), 3.72(s,3H,Ester), 4.62(s,2H,OCH₂), 5.14(q,1H,CH), 6.82(s,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 86 2-[4-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-phenoxy]-propionic acidmethyl ester

To a mixture of hydroquinone (50 grams, 454.5 mmol), potassium carbonate(252 grams, 1.823 moles), sodium iodide (5 grams, 33.3 mmol), disodiumphosphate (5 grams, 35.4 mmol) in anhydrous DMF (750 mL) at 70° C. wasadded methyl 2-chloro propionate (139 grams, 1.135 moles) drop wise.Later heated to 100° C. for 20 hours. Reaction mixture was cooled toroom temperature and poured onto ice cold water (2.5 lit). Crude 86 wasextracted into chloroform, washed with water (2×500 mL), dried oversodium sulphate, distilled and purified by column chromatography onsilica gel using benzene as eluant to give pure 86 (44 grams, 34.3%) asa low melting white solid. ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.60 (d,3H,CH₃),3.75(s,3H,Ester), 4.64(q,1H,CH), 6.78(s,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 87 2-[4-(1-Carboxy-ethoxy)-phenoxy]-propionic acid (87)

A mixture of 2-[4-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-phenoxy]-propionic acidmethyl ester 86 (20 grams, 70.9 mmol) in concentrated hydrochloric acid(100 mL) was heated to 90° C. for 8 hours. The reaction mixture waspoured onto ice cold water (200 mL) and filtered the separated solid,washed with methanol and dried to give crude 87 (7 grams, 38.8%) as awhite solid. M.p: 235-239.7° C.

EXAMPLE 882-[4-(1-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonyl-ethoxy)-phenoxy]-propionic acidmethoxy carbonyl methyl ester (88)

To a mixture of 2-[4-(1-carboxy-ethoxy)-phenoxy]-propionic acid 87 (5grams, 19.68 mmol), Triethylamine (10.16 grams, 100 mmol) in acetone wasadded methyl chloro acetate (7.4 grams, 68.2 mmol) drop wise and laterrefluxed for 6 hours. The solids were filtered, acetone distilled andwater (50 mL) was added. Crude 88 was extracted into chloroform, washedwith 5% sodium bicarbonate (2×20 mL), water (2×20 mL), dried over sodiumsulphate and distilled. The crude 88 was purified by columnchromatography on silica gel using chloroform as eluant to give pure 88(7 grams, 89.3%) as a white powder. Analytical sample was prepared byrecrystallising the above solid in a mixture of chloroform:Hexane to get4 grams of pure 88. M.p: 90.5-92.5° C. ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃) δ1.66(d,3H,CH₃), 3.75(s,3H,Ester), 4.64(s,2H,OCH₂), 4.72(q,1H,CH),6.80(s,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 89 2-(6-Carboxymethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid (89)

A mixture of 2-(6-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acidmethyl ester 31 (23 grams, 76.16 mmol) in 4 N—NaOH solutions (230 mL)was heated on a water bath at 90° C. for 8 hours. The reaction mass wascooled to room temperature and the pH adjusted to 2 with concentratedhydrochloric acid. Crude 89 was filtered, dried, and recrystallized froma mixture of ethyl acetate:hexane (1:6) to give pure 89 (15 grams,71.9%) as a white powder. Mp: 185-188° C. ^(I)H NMR (DMSO-d₆) δ1.54(d,3H,CH₃), 3.80(q,1H,CH), 4.74(s,2H,OCH₂), 7.08(s,1H,Ar),7.22(m,1H,Ar), 7.42(m,1H,Ar), 7.66(m,3H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 902-(6-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionicacid methoxy carbonylmethyl ester (90)

To a mixture of 2-(6-carboxymethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid 89(18 g, 65.69 mmol) Triethyl amine (20.25 g, 200.1 mmol) in acetone (180mL) was added methyl chloro acetone (22.2 g, 204.5 mmol) drop wise,later heated to reflux for 21 hrs. Solids were filtered off, acetonedistilled and water (100 mL) was added. Crude 90 was extracted intochloroform, washed with 5% sodium bicarbonate (2×50 mL), water (2×50mL), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 90 was purifiedby column chromatography on silica gel using Benzene as eluant to givepure 90 (21 g, 76.5%) as a light yellow syrup. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ1.60(d,3H,CH₃), 3.68(s,3H,Ester), 3.74(s,3H,Ester), 3.92(q,1H,CH),4.55(dd,2H,CH₂), 4.70(s,2H,CH₂), 4.80 (s,2H,CH₂), 7.08(d,1H,Ar), 7.18(m,1H,Ar), 7.30(s,1H,Ar), 7.40(m,1H,Ar), 7.68(m,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 91 2-(6-Hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acidmethoxycarbonylmethyl ester (91)

To a mixture of 2-(6-Hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid 29 (10grams, 46.2 mmol), Triethylamine (4.7 grams, 46.4 mmol) in acetone (100mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (8 grams, 73.7 mmol) and refluxedfor 24 hours. The solids were filtered, acetone distilled, crude 91extracted into chloroform, washed with 5% sodium bicarbonate (2×15 mL),water (2×15 mL), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. Crude 91 waspurified by crystallization from a mixture of Chloroform:Hexane (1:6) toget pure 91 (7 grams, 52.5%) as white powder. M.p: 84.5-87° C. ^(I)HNMR(CDCl₃) δ 1.62(d,3H,CH₃), 3.72(s,3H,Ester), 3.94(q,1H,CH), 4.62(d,2H,CH₂), 7.00(m,2H,Ar), 7.3 (d,1H,Ar), 7.56(m,3H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 92 2-(6-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acidmethoxy carbonyl methyl ester (92)

To a mixture of 2-(6-Hydroxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acid 29 (25 g,115.74 mmol) Triethylamine (15.2 g, 150.2 mmol) in acetone (125 mL) wasadded methyl chloro acetate (13.8 g, 127.16 mmol) drop wise and heatedto reflux for 24 hrs. The Solids were filtered off and to the acetonelayer was added Potassium carbonate (30 g, 217 mmol), Sodium Iodide (4g, 26.68 mmol), disodium Phosphate (4 g, 28.33 mmol), methyl chloroacetate (18 g, 165.86 mmol) and refluxed for 6 hrs. Acetone wasdistilled and water (125 mL) added. The crude 92 was extracted intochloroform, washed with 5% sodium bicarbonate solution (2×50 mL), water(2×50 mL), dried over sodium sulphate and distilled. The crude 92 waspurified by column chromatography on silica gel using Hexane:Ethylacetate (95:5) to get pure 92 (10 g, 24%) as a light yellow syrup.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 1.64(d,3H,CH₃), 3.72(s,3H,Ester), 3.84(s,3H,Ester),3.95(q,1H,CH), 4.58(dd,2H,CH₂), 4.62(s,2H,CH₂), 7.04(d,1H,Ar),7.22(m,1H,Ar), 7.40(m,1H,Ar), 7.70(m,3H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 93 Methyl (4-Nitro phenoxy)acetate (93)

To a mixture of 4-Nitro phenol (100 grams, 719 mmol), anhydrous K₂CO₃(400 grams, 2.894 moles) in anhydrous acetone (950 mL) was added methylchloroacetate (114 grams, 1.050 moles) and refluxed for 12 hours.Acetone was distilled and water (1500 mL) was added. Crude 93 wasfiltered, dried, and recrystallized from a mixture of Ethylacetate:Hexane (1:5) to give pure 93 (110 grams, 72.5%) as a whitefluffy powder. M.p: 97-98.4° C.

EXAMPLE 94 (4-Nitro phenoxy)acetic acid (94)

A mixture of methyl (4-Nitro phenoxy)acetate 93 (100 grams, 474 mmol)and concentrated HCl (1000 mL) was refluxed for 8 hours. The reactionmass was cooled to room temperature. Crude 94 was filtered, dried, andrecrystallized from a mixture of Ethyl acetate:Hexane (1:5) to give pure94 (86 grams, 92.1%) as a white shining powder. M.p: 186-188.5° C.

EXAMPLE 95 (4-Nitro-phenoxy)-acetic acid methoxycarbonylmethyl ester(95)

To a mixture (4-Nitrophenoxy)acetic acid 94 (150 grams, 761.4 mmol),Triethylamine (85 grams, 840 mmol) in acetone (750 mL) was added methylchloroacetate (91.6 grams, 844 mmol) drop wise, later stirred underreflux for 8 hours. Solids were filtered off and poured on to cold 5%sodium bicarbonate solution (4 lit). Crude 95 was filtered, dried, andrecrystallized from chloroform:hexane (1:6) to get pure 95 (186 grams,90.8%) as a white powder. M.p: 88-90° C. ^(I)H NMR (CDCl₃) δ3.80(s,3H,Ester), 4.75(s,2H,OCH₂), 4.88(s,2H,OCH₂), 7.02(d,2H,Ar),8.22(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 96 (4-Amino-phenoxy)-acetic acid methoxycarbonylmethyl ester(96)

(4-Nitro-phenoxy)-acetic acid methoxycarbonylmethyl ester 95 (20 grams,74.3 mmol) was dissolved in dimethyl formamide (100 mL) in a pressurevessel, palladium on carbon (5%, 8 grams) added, and the mixture stirredunder an atmosphere of H (4 Kg) for 2 hours. The catalyst was removed byfiltration and to the filtrate; ice water (400 mL) was added. Crude 96was extracted into ethyl acetate, dried over Na₂SO₄ and distilled, crude3 was recrystallized from chloroform:hexane (1:6) to get pure 96 (13grams, 73%) as a light brown shining powder. M.p: 76.5-78.5° C. ^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃) δ 3.32(bs,2H,NH₂), 3.76(s,3H,Ester), 4.70(s,2H,OCH₂),4.74(s,2H,OCH₂), 6.60(d,2H,Ar), 6.74(d,2H,Ar).

EXAMPLE 97 [3-(4-Carboxymethoxy-phenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy]-aceticacid (97)

To mixture of[3-(4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy]-aceticacid methyl ester 52 (45 grams, 113.5 mmol) and concentratedhydrochloric acid (250 mL) was heated at 90° C. for 5 hours. Thereaction mixture was cooled to room temperature and poured onto icewater (250 mL), filtered the solids, washed with water, methanol anddried. Crude 97 was recrystallized from Dimethyl formamide andPrecipitated with water to give pure 97 (36 grams, 86.1%) as a whitepowder. M.p: 270-272.2° C.

EXAMPLE 98[4-(7-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-3-yl)-phenoxy]-aceticacid methoxycarbonylmethyl ester (98)

To mixture of[3-(4-Carboxymethoxy-phenyl)-4-oxo-4H-chromen-7-yloxy]-acetic acid 97(30 grams, 81 mmol), Triethylamine (41 grams, 405 mmol) in acetone (300mL) was added methyl chloro acetate (31 grams, 286 mmol) drop wise andheated to reflux for 8 hours. Solids were filtered; acetone distilledand poured onto 5% Sodium bicarbonate solution (200 mL). Crude 98 wasextracted into chloroform, dried over sodium sulphate and distilled.Crude 98 was recrystallized from a mixture of Chloroform:Hexane (1:6) toget pure 98 (38.5 grams, 92.3%) as a white powder. M.p: 111-114° C.^(I)HNMR (CDCl₃+DMSO-d₆) δ 3.78(s, 6H, ester×2) 4.74(s,4H,CH₂×2),4.84(s,2H,CH₂), 5.00(s,2H,CH₂), 7.00(m,4H,Ar), 7.50(d,2H,Ar),8.10(d,1H,Ar), 8.18(s,1H,Ar).

In Vitro Hydrolysis of Functionalized Phenolics

A few selected compounds were examined for the rate of hydrolysis byconducting in vitro hydrolysis studies at reflux temperature (100° C.).For each experiment, 500 mg of a functionalized compound and 50 mL of pH7.4 buffer solution (purchased from Aldrich chemical company) werecharged into a 100 mL round bottom flask fitted with a condenser and thecontents were refluxed. In vitro hydrolysis of the functionalizedphenolic was monitored by thin layer chromatography (TLC) usingcorresponding starting material (original amino acid) as a control. Invitro hydrolysis was continued at reflux until the functionalizedmolecule hydrolyzed to the starting compound.

EXAMPLE 99 4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acidmethoxycarbonyl methyl ester (Example 77) was hydrolyzed under the aboveconditions in 26.5 hours as shown below (99)

EXAMPLE 100 4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methoxycarbonylmethylester (Example 78) was hydrolyzed under the above conditions in 33.0hours as shown below (100)

EXAMPLE 101 2-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acid methoxycarbonylmethylester (Example 79) was hydrolyzed under the above conditions in eighthours as shown below (101)

EXAMPLE 102 2-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-benzoic acidmethoxycarbonyl methyl ester (Example 81) was hydrolyzed under the aboveconditions in two hours as shown below (102)

EXAMPLE 103 (4-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-phenoxy)-aceticacid methoxy

carbonyl methyl ester (Example 84) was hydrolyzed under the aboveconditions in one hour as shown below (103)

EXAMPLE 1042-{2-[4-(1-Methoxycarbonyl-ethoxycarbonylmethoxy)-phenoxy]-acetoxy}-propionicacid methyl ester (Example 85) was hydrolyzed under the above conditionsin two hours as shown below (104)

EXAMPLE 1052-(6-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionicacid methoxy carbonyl methyl ester (Example 90) was hydrolyzed under theabove conditions in four hours as shown below (105)

EXAMPLE 106 2-(6-Methoxycarbonylmethoxy-naphthalen-2-yl)-propionic acidmethoxy carbonyl methyl ester (Example 92) was hydrolyzed under theabove conditions in four hours as shown below (106)

EXAMPLE 107 (4-Amino-phenoxy)-acetic acid methoxycarbonylmethyl ester(Example 96) was hydrolyzed under the above conditions in three hours asshown below (107)

EXAMPLE 108[4-(7-Methoxycarbonylmethoxycarbonylmethoxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-3-yl)-phenoxy]-aceticacid methoxy carbonyl methyl ester (Example 98) was hydrolyzed under theabove conditions in ten hours as shown below (108)

This indicates that the functionalized phenolics of the presentinvention hydrolyze and also that polymers derived from thefunctionalized phenolics should hydrolyze. Therefore, using thefunctionalized phenolics, one can develop polymers with controlledhydrolysis profiles.

What is claimed:
 1. A compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof:Ar—[O—(X)_(p)—R′]_(q)  (I) wherein: Ar is the remainder of a phenolicresidue and is selected from: resorcinol, catechol, dihydroxy-naphthyl,tri-hydroxy-naphthyl, tetra-hydroxy-naphthyl, unsubstitutedhydroquinone, tri-hydroxy-phenyl, di-hydroxy-benzoic acids, andisoflavones; X is independently at each occurrence selected from:—CH₂COO—; —CH(CH₃)COO—; —CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO—; —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO—;—(CH₂)_(y)COO—; and, —(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂COO—; y is independently selectedfrom 2, 3, 4 and 6-24; z is independently selected from 2-24; R′ isselected from H, benzyl, and C₁₋₆ alkyl; p is independently selectedfrom 2, 3, and 4; and, q is selected from 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and10.
 2. The compound according to claim 1, wherein X is selected from:—CH₂COO—; —CH(CH₃)COO—; —CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO—; and, —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂COO—; and,q is
 2. 3. The compound according to claim 1, wherein X is independentlyat each occurrence selected from: —CH₂COO—; —CH(CH₃)COO—;—CH₂CH₂OCH₂COO—; —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CO O—; —(CH₂)_(y)COO—; and,—(CH₂CH₂O)_(z)CH₂COO—; y is independently selected from 2, 3, and 4; zis independently selected from 2, 3, and 4; p is independently selectedfrom 2 and 3; and, q is selected from 2 and
 3. 4. The compound accordingto claim 1, wherein: the phenolic residue is a di-hydroxy-benzoic acid.5. A compound according to claim 1, wherein: the phenolic residue is anisoflavone.
 6. The compound of claim 1, wherein the phenolic residue isselected from: resorcinol, catechol, unsubstituted hydroquinone,tri-hydroxy-phenyl, and dihydroxy-benzoic acid.
 7. The compound of claim1, wherein the compound is:


8. The compound of claim 1, wherein the compound is:


9. The compound of claim 1, wherein the compound is:


10. The compound of claim 1, wherein the phenolic residue and is anisoflavone that is selected from: glycitein, daidzein, prunetin,biochanin A, orobol, santal, pratensein, and genistein.
 11. The compoundof claim 1, wherein the compound is


12. The compound of claim 1, wherein the phenolic residue is selectedfrom: resorcinol, catechol, unsubstituted hydroquinone, andtri-hydroxy-phenyl.
 13. The compound of claim 1, wherein the phenolicresidue is selected from: dihydroxy-naphthyl, tri-hydroxy-naphthyl, andtetra-hydroxy-napthyl.